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^OHN PAUL JONES FLUSHED WITH 
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With 





JOHN PAUL 





JONES 





John T Iniyre 

c^tj^hor of 

**FightingKlng Ocorge*etc. 





Ittvistrewicd 

Clyde O.Deland 





THE PENNc^ 
PUBLISHING 

C OiviPAN Yc^ 1 

PHILADELPHIA 

M C M V I 


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LIBRARY of CONGRESS 
Two CoDies Received 

JUN 6 1906 

fj Copyricht Entry 
*CLASS^' XXc. No. 

fi^y4 

COPY B. ’ 


Copyright 1906 by The Penn Publishing Company 


With John Paul Jones 





Contents 


CHAP. PAGE 

I How Ethan Carlyle Brought the 

News of Burgoyne’s Surrender . 9 

II How A Spy Listened at the Window 21 

III How THE Shallop Attacked the Is- 

land Queen 32 

IV Shows How the Ranger Sailed for 

France 46 

V How Ethan Carlyle Faced the Bully 

OF THE Ranger ....... 62 

VI What Happened by Night in the 

Harbor of Nantes 73 

VII How Longsword Struck Home . . 82 

VIII Shows How Benjamin Franklin 

Opened the Secret Dispatch . . 104 

IX How Ethan and Longsword Met a 

Man Named Fochard 114 

X The Cruise of the Ranger . . . . 130 

XI On St. Mary’s Isle 15 1 

XII In Which Danvers Appears Once 

More 162 

XIII How the Spy Lost His Prisoners . . 176 

XIV How Ethan and Longsword Took 

THE Schooner 193 


5 


6 


CONTENTS 


XV How THE Schooner Came Upon the 

Drake in the Darkness .... 209 

XVI How THE Ranger Fought the Drake 216 
XVII The Secret Agent Once More . . 230 

XVIII The Road to Brest 251 

XIX How THE Erin Put to Sea .... 266 

XX Shows How a Soldier Came out of 

Mill Prison 279 

XXI The Exploit of Master Dirk Hat- 
field 293 

XXII The Press-Gang 305 

XXIII How THE Bon Homme Richard Met 

THE Serapis 319 

XXIV How THE Serapis Struck Her Flag . 339 

XXV Home and Liberty 354 


Illustrations 

[OHN Paul Jones Flushed with Pleasure Frontispiece ^ 

PACX 

“I’ll do it,” said Ethan Promptly 26*^ 

“Keep them at Sword’s Length,” said Captain 

Jones 99 

Danvers came down into the Hold 17 1 

Ethan Carlyle stood before them 204 

An Angry Look came into Hatfield’s Eyes . 313 

He Began to throw the Grenades 349 


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With John Paul Jones 


CHAPTER I 

HOW ETHAN CARLYLE BROUGHT THE NEWS OF 

burgoyne's surrender 

** Who is that man that is so much at the 
Wheelocks’ just now ? asked young Walter 
Stanton of his friend Philip Morgan. 

“ Some Tory friend, I suppose. I don’t like 
him ; see the sneer upon his face as he looks 
at the members upon the steps of the State 
House.” 

It was about noon on a day late in Septem- 
ber in the year 1777. A group of young men 
and boys were lounging upon some benches in 
the shade of two big buttonwoods directly 
across from the quaint old State House at 
Philadelphia. The sun hung almost over the 
tower whose bell had boomed freedom to a 
nation only a little more than a year before ; 
upon the stone steps of the building stood a 
9 


lo WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


number of grave-faced, earnest gentlemen, 
members of the first Continental Congress, 
talking of the weighty matters that were to 
be discussed in the approaching session. 

The man who had attracted Walter Stan- 
ton's attention was a person of striking ap- 
pearance. He had thick, coal-black hair, a 
pale, keen face and a frame that showed 
strength and endurance. A boy of about 
nineteen stood at his side, and they were both 
talking in low tones and watching the patriot- 
legislators as they slowly assembled. Philip 
Morgan was right when he said that the 
stranger wore a sneer upon his face. That 
cold look of pitying contempt and the curl of 
the man’s lip could mean nothing else. A 
stir went through the crowd of lads as an 
erect, care-worn man passed slowly along, with 
bent head and an air of great abstraction , 
every hat came off with a sweep of respect. 

Who is that man ? ” asked the stranger of 
Walter. 

'' That,” answered the boy, is Mr. Hancock, 
president of Congress.” 

The stranger’s teeth gleamed in a mocking 
smile. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES ii 


Ah, yes, I have heard of him,^’ he said. 
“ It was he that caused this war with Eng» 
land.’’ 

Walter and Philip looked at each other ; the 
boy at the man’s side nudged him in a man- 
ner that said as plainly as words : Be care- 

ful of what you say.” 

“ It’s news to me,” spoke Walter Stanton, 
“ to hear that Mr. John Hancock was the 
cause of the war.” 

We had always fancied that it was begun 
by that old madman, King George,” said 
Philip Morgan, who was a blunt spoken lad 
at best ; and the man’s manner irritated him. 
The stranger bent his brows and a glint of 
anger came into his sharp, black eyes. He 
seemed upon the point of making a biting re- 
tort ; but once more the boy at his side warned 
him to beware. 

** Be careful, Danvers,” he whispered. 
“You’ll get into trouble. They are all Whigs 
here.” 

Danvers hesitated a moment ; then he turned 
to Philip with a cold smile that showed his 
strong white teeth. 

“ If it had not been for Major Pitcairn’s be- 


1 2 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


ing called out that day with his men to seize 
this Mr. Hancock for treason to the crown, 
there would have been no fight at Lexington ; 
and had that skirmish not taken place there 
would have been no rebellion.’' 

“ Revolution is a better word, I think,” 
said Walter Stanton, quietly. 

“ Call it what you will,” answered the man 
sneeringly, the fact remains the same.” 

“ And I don’t like your calling the fight at 
Lexington a skirmish,” spoke the blunt- 
tongued Philip, who had come to think of 
that first exchange of shots as a most glorious 
engagement. “ It resulted in three hundred 
British troops being killed, and when Put- 
nam and Arnold hurried up to take com- 
mand of the minutemen, they walled Gen- 
eral Gage up in Boston, for all his army and 
ships.” 

Putnam ! ” said the man in his mocking 
way. ‘'What is he? An old farmer turned 
soldier ; and Arnold is a swaggering, reckless 
ruffian.” 

“ Be quiet,” whispered Stephen Wheelock, 
as he dragged at the man’s sleeve, his face 
growing pale as he noted the resentful expres- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 13 

sions of those about them. “ Be quiet, I tell 
you ! ” 

Danvers’ quick eye saw the effect of his 
words and he smiled coolly. It seemed as 
though he rather enjoyed the risk he ran in 
being so open in his words. 

“ Never fear,” said he, in a low tone to 
young Wheelock. “ I only want to stir them 
up a bit. I’ll be careful not to go too far.” 

“ You’ll get my father into hot water, Dan- 
vers, if you don’t mind yourself,” warned 
Stephen, drawing the man aside. “ The 
Whigs know that our family sympathize with 
the cause of the king; and it must not be 
known that we harbor agents of Lord North’s 
government.” 

“ Hush ! ” warned Danvers, in his turn. 

They will know it soon enough, and you’ll 
have my neck in a halter, if you hse such 
terms as that in this public place.” 

Give them no cause for suspicion, then,” 
said young Wheelock. “ I’ve seen them 
aroused more than once, and it’s not a pleasant 
thing to look at, indeed.” 

Philip Morgan’s ire was aroused by the 
words of Danvers, and he was talking loudly. 


14 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Let the Englisli say what they like/' cried 
he, we have as good officers as they, and 
perhaps better. And we were faithful to the 
king, too, until he hired the Brunswickers 
and Hessians to come and fight against us. 
No free men could stand such a thing as 
that." 

No, no," chorused the boys upon the 
benches. 

“ That was the last straw," said Walter 
Stanton. If King George had not done 
that, the gentlemen across the way would 
never have written, passed and signed the 
Declaration of Independence, July a year ago." 

So interested were all the boys in the talk, 
which now became general, that they did not 
notice a horseman ride up, dismount and tie 
his nag to a post near at hand. He was a tall, 
spare, raw-boned man, with fiery red hair. 
He held himself with the rigid bearing of a 
man trained in the army ; his face was reso- 
lute, indeed fierce looking ; and an ugly 
sword slash had left a red scar across it that 
did not add to his appearance. He stood at 
his horse's head listening, as Philip Morgan 
went on, addressing Danvers. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 15 

You may sneer at Putnam if you like, 
sir, but he is a bold and able officer, and so is 
General Arnold. Why, Arnold’s invasion of 
Canada alone would stamp him as an uncom- 
mon man.” 

He had Richard Montgomery with him,” 
said Danvers, coldly, and Montgomery got 
what little training he had as an officer in the 
British army. The best that one can say of 
him is that he was brave.” 

At the name of the intrepid and lamented 
Montgomery, the fierce looking man with the 
scar upon his face had bent forward interest- 
edly ; but at the words of Danvers he stepped 
forward, his strong fingers twisting nervously. 

I knew General Montgomery,” said he to 
Danvers ; “ he was the cleverest officer I ever 
saw.” 

Danvers turned and swept him with an in- 
solent look. 

“ And, pray, sir, who are you ? ” he asked. 

“ Shamus O’Moore, once of the Iniskillens,” 
answered the newcomer, standing very erect 
and speaking in a harsh, high voice. 

“ Ah,” sneered Danvers, an English dra- 
goon.” 


i6 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


No/' said the other with great prompt- 
ness, an Irish dragoon." 

It is all the same," spoke Danvers. 

‘‘ Pardon me," protested the other, still in 
the same tone, and never budging an inch in 
his ramrod like attitude. There is no 
sameness about it at all. Faith, ye could 
never make an Englishman out of an Irish- 
man in the world. They are like oil and 
water, and they won't mix." 

It's the man they call Longsword," whis- 
pered Walter Stanton to his chum, Philip 
Morgan. 

** I know," answered the latter. “ I've seen 
him at Ethan Carlyle's several times." 

General Montgomery," said the soldier- 
like O'Moore, were an Irishman like meself 
and proud he were of it. He gave up his life 
for this struggling nation, sir, in the storming 
of Quebec ; and it was no common life. I'll 
have ye know. There was in him the mak- 
ings of a general officer that would have as- 
tonished the world." 

‘*Oh, you fancy yourself a judge, I see," 
said Danvers, icily. 

** Man and boy, I've soldiered for thirty 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 17 

years, said the other, “and I’ve had lots of 
time to pick up stray bits of knowledge by 
the wayside.” 

As Danvers turned away to give his atten- 
tion to young Wheelock, who was again 
plucking warningly at his sleeve, O’Moore 
noticed Walter Stanton and favored him in- 
stantly with a stilf, formal salute. 

“ Hello, O’Moore,” said Walter. “ Where is 
Ethan?” 

“ Master Ethan will be here in a few mo- 
ments,” returned O’Moore. “There he is 
beyant, speaking with Mr. Jefferson.” 

The lads turned their eyes in the direction 
indicated, and saw a gentleman garbed in 
sober black standing in the footway some little 
distance off conversing excitedly with a clean 
built, handsome boy of seventeen, who was 
seated astride a powerful bay horse. 

“ Did you know that Ethan was secretary 
to Mr. Jefferson, now ? ” asked Walter, as they 
watched the two with interest. 

“Yes,” answered Philip. “ His father and 
Mr. Jefferson were great friends, O’Moore, 
were they not? ” 

“ Indeed, yes, sir,” said the ex-dragoon. 


i8 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


And Mr. Jefferson visited him at New Or- 
leans before the war came on.” 

“ They seem greatly interested in their 
talk,” observed Walter, still gazing toward the 
lad on the bay horse and the black clad states- 
man. I never saw Mr. Jefferson so excited, 
and IVe seen him many times and listened to 
his speeches.” 

And it’s no wonder. Master Stanton, that 
he do be excited now,” said Shamus. “ Sure 
he’s listening to better news then he’s heard 
in many a long day. While taking a gallop 
on the north roads this morning. Master 
Ethan and meself came upon a courier from 
New York whose horse had stumbled, thrown 
him and broken his leg. We carried him to 
an inn where he’d be taken care of ; and when 
he found out who Master Ethan were he 
handed over his despatches and bid us ride to 
the city wid them and give them to Mr. Han- 
cock, the president of the Congress.” 

There is news from the north, then ? ” 
cried Walter, his eyes opening wider in ex- 
pectation. 

‘‘ Good news, too, you said, O’Moore,” said 
Philip Morgan. “Come, now, tell us what it is.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


19 

The other boys had risen from their seats 
upon the benches, and all crowded eagerly 
about the grim looking dragoon. 

What's the news? " they clamored. Tell 
us the news." 

'‘YeTl hear it in another moment," said 
O'Moore, a smile flickering on his lips. “Here 
comes Master Ethan now." 

The sober looking gentleman in black, had 
just waved the boy upon the horse delightedly 
away ; the lad touched his mount with the 
spur and dashed down the street toward the 
state house. Mr. Hancock stood upon the low 
stone steps in the midst of a group of mem- 
bers engaged in earnest talk, when the bay 
was pulled up sharply, and the boy upon his 
back called in a voice that trembled with ex- 
citement : 

“ Mr. Hancock." 

That gentleman raised his brows in some 
little surprise at this ; then his face wrinkled 
in a smile and he nodded his recognition. 

“ News from the north ! " cried the boy as 
he swung a bulky saddle packet over his 
head. 

The expression of every man present 


20 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


changed instantly ; every voice was hushed, 
every face was strained and anxious. For 
weeks they had been swayed, pendulum-like, 
between hope and fear ; and now the result 
was to be known. 

** Burgoyne,^’ shouted the boy, as he swung 
himself exultantly from his horse, “ has sur- 
rendered to General Gates at Saratoga.’^ 

Then, amidst the clapping of hands and 
the shouts of the crowd that had gathered 
like magic, he strode across the walk, his spurs 
jingling on the flags, and handed the des- 
patches to the president of the Continental 
Congress. 


CHAPTER II 


HOW A SPY LISTENED AT THE WINDOW 

Shamus O'Moore took his young master's 
horse and his own to a neighboring stable 
where they were in the habit of putting them 
up, and then returned to the state house. 
Ethan was busy with a huge portfolio of Mr. 
Jefferson's papers in a small room at the south 
end ; from the hall came the murmur of 
voices and now and then a steady flow of 
words which showed that some member was 
addressing the Congress. 

They do be after talking it over, Master 
Ethan," said the ex-dragoon. And it's 
mighty glad they all are." 

And no wonder," said Ethan Carlyle, 
looking up from his work with a smile. “ A 
victory now means a great deal. Defeat has 
followed defeat so closely, Shamus, that they, 
in spite of their hopeful front, began to de- 
spair of ever seeing success crown the Ameri- 
can arms." 


21 


22 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


Well, they Ve got a murderin’ big slice of 
success this time,” said the Irish soldier, with 
great satisfaction. “ And it’s pleased I am at 
that same ; for every true son of Erin, Master 
Ethan, wants to see the Saxon beat.” 

Ethan laughed, and there was a twinkle in 
his eye as he remarked : 

Why, if you dislike the British so, you 
old fire eater, how came you to be so taken 
with my poor dead father? He was an Eng- 
lishman.” 

The old dragoon scratched his head in a 
rather awkward fashion, and then made 
reply : 

Your father was the finest gentleman I 
ever saw, and it was no fault of his that he 
was an Englishman. Sure no man can choose 
the country he’s to first see the light in. But 
he showed his quality when he resigned from 
the English army and came to America. If 
he were alive and able to hold a sword and 
head a regiment to-day, he’d be in the thick 
of it for freedom and the new land, so he 
would.” 

There came a dimness to the boy’s eyes and 
he patted the old trooper upon the back. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 23 

“You cared a very great deal for my father, 
didn’t you, Longsword ? ” 

“ I did,” said the other steadily, looking 
straight before him with unwinking eyes, 
“ and I think as much of your father’s son, 
faith.” 

“ I know that, old friend. You’ve been 
with me through everything. You even gave 
up your hopes of meeting the British in battle 
to be with me here in Philadelphia.” 

“ It was a hard wrench,” spoke Shamus, a 
note of regret in his voice,” but the war is not 
over. Master Ethan, and I have hopes that we 
two will see service yet.” 

There was some more talk of a like nature, 
and then Ethan went back to his work upon 
Mr. Jefferson’s papers, while the ex-dragoon 
went outside the south door and paced slowly 
up and down in the warm sunlight. Ethan’s 
father had been a British cavalry major who 
sold out and emigrated to Virginia. Upon a 
visit to New Orleans he met and married the 
daughter of a French merchant and engaged 
with the old man in his business. Clarette & 
Co. had many ships in the Gulf, and Ethan 
was practically raised on board of them, as 


24 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

his father was continually voyaging from one 
place to another in search of trade. In those 
days the Gulf and the Caribbean swarmed 
with buccaneers, and every merchantman was 
armed and strongly manned ; the ships of 
Clarette & Go. were often called upon to de- 
fend themselves from these rovers, and some 
of Ethanes most vivid recollections were of 
shot-swept decks and men leaping back from 
the cut of Shamus O^Moore’s mighty brass- 
hilted sword. 

The Irish dragoon had been his father’s 
orderly in the English army, and had come to 
America with him ; Major Carlyle was an Ox- 
ford man, and attended to his son’s education 
himself while at sea; but it was the grim, 
hard visaged Shamus that taught him how to 
develop his muscles to the hardness of steel, 
and how to use cutlass, sabre, pike, bayonet 
and small-sword. The Irishman had spent 
years in the study of arms ; his sword-play 
had been the marvel of the British army when 
he served in the Inniskillens, and had earned 
for him the name of Longsword.” Day by 
day this master of fence had drilled the boy 
in sword-play. But in spite of his aptness, 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 25 

Ethan never drew a word of praise from 
Longsword, who continued to labor with him, 
between decks, in the dog watches, relent- 
lessly, remorselessly, mercilessly. The boy 
could close his eyes in his bunk, during his 
watch below, and still see the angular, power- 
ful figure of the dragoon before him ; he could 
see the light from the ports falling upon the 
scarlet scar that crossed his face, he could see 
the flashing of the heavy double-edged sword 
and the constant movement of the tireless 
arm. He never complained at the labor of 
the drill. 

But one day as they were in the midst of a 
lesson that had lasted above an hour, Ethan 
in a sudden burst of impatience had refused 
to give way before the dragoon^s heavy attack ; 
a desperate rally ensued, and to the astonish- 
ment of the watching sailors, the boy actually 
drove Shamus back before a storm of light- 
ning-like blows. And then Longsword threw 
down his blade, uttered a wild Irish whoop 
that rang through the ship, sprang forward 
and clutched his pupil in a bear-like hug. 

At last! ’’ he exulted. “ Ye've done it at 
last. I've taught ye all I know, and I've 


26 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


only been waiting to have ye use it on meself 
to get the feel of it. There will be no more 
lessons, Master Ethan ; all ye need is strength 
and weight, and then faith, even Shamus 
O'Moore will be careful how he stands forninst 
ye! ” 

These things were running through Ethan 
Carlyle's head as he sorted over the papers of 
Mr. Jefferson. At last Congress adjourned, 
and the members streamed out of the building 
and down the quiet street. Then Mr. Jeffer- 
son and Mr. Hancock entered the room with 
quiet steps. The boy arose and bowed and 
then was about to go on with his work, when 
his employer said : 

Never mind that for a time, Ethan ; there 
is something which we desire to say to 
you." 

The lad looked at the great Virginian won- 
deringly ; then as he and Mr. Hancock seated 
themselves at a table near a window, he 
crossed the room and stood beside them. 

“ Sit down," said Mr. Hancock, pointing to 
a chair. 

The boy did so, and then the president of 
the Congress went on. 



“ T'LL DO IT," SAID ETHAM 
^ PROMPTLY 




WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 27 

“ There is a service which you can render 
Congress and your country if you will/' 

Ethan's eyes lit up. 

“ Then consider it done, sir, if the power to 
render the service rests in me." 

Both the statesmen smiled ; and Mr. Han- 
cock proceeded. 

“ At this time there is at Portsmouth a new 
sloop-of-war being made ready for sea. She 
is called the Ranger, and is to sail under the 
mastership of Captain John Paul Jones." 

The boy drew in his breath and the grasp 
of his hands tightened upon the arms of the 
chair. The story of the wonderful cruises of 
this new sea-king in the Providence and Al- 
fred was ringing through the land ; he had 
spread such terror by his deeds upon blue 
water that British merchants feared to send 
their vessels to sea, and British frigates were 
scouring the Western waters in search of him 
like a pack of fierce, baffled hounds. 

The Ranger is to sail for France," said Mr. 
Hancock, and Captain Jones is to deliver an 
important document into the hands of Mr. 
Franklin, our commissioner in that country." 

Mr. Jefferson here laid a packet, sealed with 


28 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


great splotches of red wax, upon the table. 
As he did so there came a slight rustling 
among some thick bushes that grew beneath 
the window, and a dark, foreign looking face 
appeared, and a pair of burning black eyes 
looked into the room. So interested were the 
three at the table within that the man^s pres- 
ence was unnoticed. 

We want you to proceed to Portsmouth 
and deliver this packet to Captain Jones,'' 
spoke Mr. Jefferson. 

I'll do it," said Ethan promptly. 

And, further, you are to sail with him in 
his ship and accompany him to Paris." 

‘‘ Very well, sir," answered the lad, quietly. 

As every person knows who is at all in- 
terested in the welfare of the country," said 
the president of Congress, our sole hope of 
success in this war lies in the possibility of 
securing the aid of France against our enemy. 
But France has seen us go down in defeat 
after defeat ; she has feared that we are not 
strong enough to continue the fight, and so 
far has refused to ally herself with us. But 
this victory of General Gates will put a dif- 
erent face upon matters. If the news that 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 29 

we send here, and the secret instructions that 
accompany it, are placed in the hands of Mr. 
Franklin at Paris, the help of France and her 
fleets are almost assured us.” 

The boy^s eyes gleamed as he watched the 
white fingers of Mr. Hancock tapping the red- 
sealed packet ; and the dark, strange face 
peering in at the window was filled with an 
expression of triumph. 

Let the contents of these documents, how- 
ever, come under the eyes of Lord North, or 
any other member of King George’s ministry, 
and all would be ruined. None but the very 
highest British officials would understand 
their meaning ; but these would grasp it in- 
stantly, and a condition for which we have 
striven for months w'ould at once be changed, 
and France would find it to her disadvantage 
to take sides with us.” 

All this means that the instructions are to 
be guarded carefully,” said Ethan. 

As you would guard your life,” said Mr. 
Jefferson, laying his hand upon his young 
secretary’s shoulder. 

“ As my life be it,” answered the boy with 
a resolute lift of the head. 


30 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“ It will take some little time for you to 
reach Portsmouth,” said Mr. Hancock, and 
Captain Jones must be all but ready to put to 
sea.” 

Then I go at once? ” 

“ Yes ; there is a schooner called the Island 
Queen which sails for Portsmouth at the next 
tide.” 

Which will be at ten to-night,” said Mr. 
Jefferson. 

“ I will be ready,” returned the boy as they 
arose to their feet, and Mr. Hancock handed 
him the packet. 

No one aboard the Ranger will know of 
this packet but yourself and the commander,” 
said the Virginian. “ That is why we desire 
you to accompany the vessel ; it will have 
another pair of eyes to watch over it.” 

“ There will be still another pair, if O^Moore 
is permitted to go with me,” said Ethan, anx- 
iously. 

“ We had not thought of depriving you of 
the service of the faithful Longsword,” smiled 
Mr. Jefferson. 

As the Virginian spoke, there came a terrific 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 31 

uproar from without, and Longs word’s voice 
was heard shouting : 

You thief of the world, to be listening at 
daysint people’s windows ! Take that ! and 
that ! and that ! ye bla’gard ! ” 

And looking through the window they saw 
the grim dragoon tearing across the green 
behind the state house in pursuit of a dark, 
foreign looking man, while with every and 
that,” he aimed a vigorous kick at him. 

Listening at the window ! ” cried Mr. 
Hancock. 

A spy ! ” echoed Mr. Jefferson. He 
must be seized ! ” 

Ethan, at these words, shot through the 
door and sprang away in pursuit ; he cried 
out to Longsword, who at once strove to lay 
hands upon the man. But the fugitive was a 
fleeter runner than either of them ; full speed 
toward the river he went, and in a little while 
was lost in the alleys and winding streets of 
that district. 


CHAPTER III 


HOW THE SHALLOP ATTACKED THE ISLAND QUEEN 

The skipper of the schooner Island Queen 
paced his after deck and waited for the 
strength of the tide. There was a two masted 
fishing vessel tied up at the other side of the 
wharf; she was a clean looking craft of the 
type called shallop, and carried two good sized 
lug sails. Her captain stood upon the pier, 
talking to the commander of the schooner. 

“You are not the only one that caught 
good luck at the last minute,” he was saying. 

“Who else has got a share of it?” asked 
the other. 

“ I have. An hour after you^d told me 
that you'd got a couple of passengers for Ports- 
mouth, a man came along and engaged my 
vessel for a run along the coast.” 

“ What’s he going to do with her ? ” 

“ I don’t know. But I’m going along ; so 
I’ll be sure that all’s right.” 

32 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 33 

“ Money's tight in these days of war," re- 
marked the skipper of the schooner, “ but," 
with a shake of the head, ‘‘ my boat only goes 
out with reg'lar cargoes and on reg'lar busi- 
ness. I don't like these queer cruises. I’ve 
seen strange things happen on ’em.” 

The captain of the shallop nodded his 
head and answered, soberly enough : 

You're right, cap'en ; but I don't have no 
reg’lar cargoes, and fishing don't pay any 
more, with British privateers always poking 
their noses into the lower bay. A man must 
support his family, you know." 

Ethan Carlyle and Longsword stood in the 
waist, leaning against the schooner's rail and 
listening to this conversation. When the 
skipper of the shallop crossed the pier and 
climbed into his own vessel, Ethan said : 

‘‘Somehow or other I don't like that." 

“ And why not? ” asked the Irish dragoon. 

“ It impresses me oddly. It may be that 
the possession of important papers has made 
me nervous, but I can't help feeling that the 
sudden hiring of that fishing boat over there 
has something to do with us." 

“ It may be so,” spoke the trooper. “ Sure 


34 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

that villain was not listening to what the 
gentlemen were saying to ye awhile ago for 
nothing, Master Ethan.” 

“ He was a strange looking fellow.” 

Yes ; some kind of a brown man like they 
have in India, and far off places like that. 
But he was a rare good runner, though,” con- 
tinued Longsword with high admiration, and 
I could reach him no more wid me foot after 
we’d gone a score of yards.” 

There was a brisk wind blowing down 
stream when the tide got its fully swing 
towards the sea ; the skipper cast off his lines 
and worked the Island Queen out into the 
river ; then the mainsail, foresail and a jib 
were set and the vessel headed away on her 
journey. As they were passing the flats be- 
low the city, Ethan, who was leaning over the 
stern rail with Longsword fancied that he saw 
a dark loom some distance toward the New 
Jersey shore. 

It looks like a vessel of some kind,” he 
said to Shamus. 

“Your eyes are younger nor mine,” an- 
swered the trooper. “ I can see nothing.” 

“ Fve been watching that for some time,” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 35 

said the mate of the schooner, who was at the 
wheel. “ Looks to me like a two master of 
some sort ; and she’s a smart sailer, too ; much 
faster than the Queen.” 

An hour passed, and the brisk wind carried 
the schooner well down the river ; but off on 
her port side clung the creeping low-lying 
shadow that had attracted Ethan’s attention. 
The sky was thickly overcast with clouds, the 
moon was hidden, and darkness hung blackly 
over the face of the waters. 

That craft may be a smarter sailer than 
the schooner,” said Ethan to the mate, but 
she’s not showing it. She’s been hanging 
there on that quarter all the way down.” 

That’s what I can’t understand,” said 
the mate. '' I’m sure she could walk away 
from us were she so minded, but they are hold- 
ing her in for some reason ; they’ve got her 
out of the wind about half the time.” 

No more was said about the shadowy craft 
for some time, until they were off Reedy 
Island ; then the skipper came on deck at the 
mate’s request, and scanned the dark waters in 
search of her. 

“Seems to me I do make out something,” 


36 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

he said, rather anxiously. Been following 
us down the river, has she ? 

“ Yes ; and she's headed for us now," said 
Ethan, whose eyes were keener than his 
elder’s. He gazed at the vessel which, sure 
enough, was now rapidly coming up with 
them ; suddenly he grasped the arm of his 
companion. Shamus," he breathed, I was 
right." 

“ About what?" asked the Irish soldier. 

About the shallop. That’s the same 
vessel." 

The captain of the Island Queen turned 
upon the boy. 

Do you mean the shallop that lay in the 
dock next us ? " asked he. 

I feel sure of it," answered Ethan. 

The captain breathed a sigh of relief. 

^'Oh, then, it’s all well enough. You see 
her captain is a friend of mine, and I sup- 
pose he wants to speak to me." 

I think," said Ethan seriously, that 
you’ll find that there is something more to 
it than that." 

'' And I agree wid ye," said Shamus 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 37 

O'Moore ; and without another word he 
dived below. 

“ Your man seems sort of nervous/' laughed 
the captain. 

Not he," smiled Ethan. “ If you spoke 
of nerves to him, I hardly think he'd know 
what you were talking about." 

“ He got below mighty sudden." 

“ He'll be back in a moment. And I fancy 
he'll have his tools with him." 

The captain stared, but said nothing more 
to the lad. Scanning the waters toward the 
island he spoke to the mate at the wheel in 
low tones regarding the chart by which he 
was steering. They were still so engaged 
when the big lug sails of the shallop came 
plainly into view and a voice from her deck 
hailed hoarsely, 

“ Ahoy, the schooner ! " 

‘‘ Ahoy," answered the schooner's skipper 
promptly. 

Is that the Island Queen ? " 

** It is. What craft is that? " 

‘‘The Saucy Sue, shallop." 

“ Oh, is that you. Captain Hutchins?" 


38 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

There was silence for a moment, then the 
voice replied : 

Yes ; lay to ; I want to come aboard of 
you/^ 

Very well,'' and the schooner's commander 
gave the order to his crew. 

But Ethan stepped to his side quickly and 
said : 

“ Be careful of what you do." 

The captain laughed and answered, ** Oh, 
I see that the Irishman is not the only person 
aboard the Queen that's nervous. You've got 
a touch of that complaint yourself, my lad." 

‘‘ It's not a question of nerves," said 
Ethan quietly. “ But it's been my experience 
that one vessel does not hang in the wake of 
another for any good purpose." 

Your experience," cried the skipper good 
humoredly ; “ listen to that, Mr. Jarvis! " 

The mate grinned and said : 

‘‘ Sounds kind of curious to hear a boy 
talk like that to two old salts, don't it ? " 

‘‘ What experience have you had on blue 
water, and with mysterious craft, sonny ? " 
asked the Queen’s skipper, humorously. 

“ Enough to teach me not to do what 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 39 

you have done/’ answered the boy. “ Coast- 
ing is easy, steady going work enough here 
in these northern waters when there is no 
Englishman about; but I’ve sailed in ships 
that have cleared the decks for action at the 
beginning of a voyage, and kept them cleared 
except for the bodies of half breed pirates who 
boarded them.” 

The skipper looked at the mate ; in the 
light of the compass lantern it was to be seen 
that that worthy had lost his grin. 

“ Where was that, youngster? ” asked he. 

In the Gulf and West Indian waters,” 
said Ethan. My grandfather and my fa- 
ther composed the firm of Clarette & Co.” 

The schooner was, by this time, rocking 
idly upon the waters of the bay ; and the 
shallop was drawing nearer with each mo- 
ment. There was no man who followed the 
sea in the western world who had not heard 
of the great firm of Clarette & Co., ship- 
owners, now passed out of existence ; and with 
a quiet smile Ethan noticed the increased re- 
spect with which the captain and mate of 
the schooner regarded him. Just then Long- 
sword came stamping upon deck ; he had his 


40 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

huge, double edged blade belted about him ; 
in his hands he carried Ethan’s sword and 
a couple of brace of heavy pistols. 

We are ready for them, asthore, no mat- 
ter who they are,” cried he as he handed the 
boy his weapons, drew his heavy blade and 
whirled it about his head with a swishing 
sound that caused the seamen in his neigh- 
borhood to duck their heads instinctively. 

You two are taking a great deal of pains 
for nothing,” growled the captain. I tell 
you there is no danger of any kind to be 
expected from that craft there. I’ve known 
her captain for years.” 

‘‘Her captain, yes,” said Ethan, evenly. 
“ But you do not know the men who have 
engaged her from him, nor what their pur- 
pose is.” 

“ You are right,” said the captain, after 
a pause. “ He told me only to-night that 
some people had chartered his vessel for a 
cruise of some kind. Do you reckon,” and 
he regarded Ethan closely, “ that they are 
after you folks ? ” 

“ I’m not at all sure,” answered the lad, 
“ but I am inclined to think that they are.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 41 

“ And come to look at the thing right be- 
tween the eyes,” spoke the mate, I don’t 
think that was Captain Hutchins or any of 
his people that hailed us. It was a strange 
voice to me.” 

This seemed to settle the matter in the 
captain’s mind, and whirling about he gave 
quick, sharp orders to get the vessel into 
the wind. But he was too late. The Island 
Queen still hung, when the smart shallop 
drew alongside. 

Ahoy,” shouted a voice from the latter’s 
deck. ‘‘ Take care there ; you’ll be afoul of 
us.” 

Then sheer off,” yelled the schooner’s 
captain. 

But we want to speak to you.” 

Sheer off, I tell you,” bellowed the fright- 
ened captain of the schooner, or I’ll run 
you down ! ” 

“ Lay that old tub to, or I’ll send a couple 
of musket shot into your hide,” shouted the 
voice threateningly. 

'' He’ll be aboard of us in a minute,” cried 
the captain. 

‘^Have you any arms on board?” asked 


42 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Ethan quietly, as he looked to the priming of 
his pistols and slipped his sword in and out 
of the scabbard to assure himself that it was 
free. 

“ A couple of cutlasses and pikes,'' said 
the skipper ; and a brace of pistols in the 
cabin." 

“ Then get them on deck if ye love me," 
cried Longsword. These are a couple of 
stout looking lads ye have here, and wid a few 
feet of cold steel in their fists they ought to 
do good work." 

As the sides of the two vessels ground 
together the weapons were produced. Ethan 
and the Irish dragoon stationed themselves 
in the waist, the mate took two men armed 
with long handled pikes into the bow, while 
the captain and three others were left to de- 
fend the after deck. 

No sooner had they reached these posi- 
tions overlooking the shallop than a grapple 
was thrown aboard and fastened the two craft 
together. 

“ Bad luck to him for an impudent 
villain," growled Longsword, " but he goes 
about it in workmanlike style." 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 43 

It’s not the first ship he’s cut out, 
whoever he is,” answered Ethan. 

“ Steady,” grumbled the low-pitched voice 
of the swordsman. “ Here they come, me 
jewel ! ” 

The waist was the point at which it was 
chosen to board the schooner. A sharp snap- 
ping of pistols that spat redly through the 
darkness preceded the rush. Then a dozen 
active figures swarmed up the sides of the Is- 
land Queen, cutlass and pistol in hand. But 
bold as they appeared to be it is doubtful if 
they would have made the attempt had they 
known what awaited them upon the schooner’s 
deck. 

As they sprang upon the rail they were 
met with a sharp fusilade of pistol shots that 
sent two of their number headlong into the 
bay ; then Ethan and the grim dragoon drew 
their blades and fell upon them. 

The officers and crew of the Island Queen 
could never tell just what happened there in 
the schooner’s waist in the dim light of the 
lanterns. They saw a dreadful whirl of blows, 
two swords that looked like circles of flame, 
two straining, panting, laboring figures that 


44 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

seemed to carry death in their hands. Then 
the decks were cleared ; the shallop drew off 
slowly, firing an occasional musket shot, while 
the cries of pain from her deck showed how 
fierce had been her crew’s repulse. 

Go about after her,” yelled Shamus 
O’Moore, we’ll board and take her, so we 
will ! ” 

The officers and crew of the schooner had 
not struck a blow, and were very well satisfied 
to let matters remain as they were. 

“ She’s getting up sail,” said the skipper, 
peering through the darkness. And we 
could never come up with her.” 

This was true, as Ethan saw at once ; un- 
der press of the two spreading lugs the 
shallop was already nothing but a shadow. 

‘‘ Did you make out the faces of any of 
them ? ” asked Ethan, when the Island Queen 
was once more under way. 

I did not,” answered the trooper, as he 
cleaned the blade of his sword with the 
frayed end of a rope. I were too busy 
cracking the heads of them. And when they 
went over the side they took all the hurted 
ones wid them.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 45 

There was silence between them for a mo- 
ment. Ethan was loading his pistols, the ex- 
dragoon rubbed industriously at his blade, 
and the seamen hurried about their duties. 
Then Shamus spoke once more. 

didn’t see sorra the one of them, 
Master Ethan ; but there is one thing I feel 
mortal sure of.” 

And what’s that, old Longsword ? ” 

“ That brown man was in that craft. He 
had a crooked kind of a knife and he were 
poking it at the ribs of me in the darkness. 
I didn’t see him ; but just the same I felt 
that he was there.” 

have no doubt,” said Ethan gravely 
enough, but what you are right. And 
perhaps we’ll hear from him again.” 


CHAPTER IV 


SHOWS HOW THE RANGER SAILED FOR FRANCE 

Because of a succession of contrary winds 
the schooner Island Queen did not enter Ports- 
mouth harbor for almost two weeks after the 
time she left the Delaware Capes. As they ran 
up under light sail, the skipper pointed to a 
sloop of war riding at anchor, and with a 
strange looking flag flying at her peak. 

“ ThaPs the ship you are looking for, I 
think, he said. 

“ Yes ; she seems like a new vessel,’’ said 
Ethan Carlyle, gazing earnestly at the craft. 

See, they are only bending her after sails.” 

She’s a foreigner,” spoke the mate of the 
schooner who stood by. “ Look at the flag 
she’s flying.” 

I hadn’t noticed that,” said the captain 
staring at the striped emblem with its cluster 
of white stars in a blue fleld. It can’t be 
the Ranger, after all, for she wouldn’t be fly- 
ing those colors.” 


46 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 47 

Ethan looked at the flag and laughed 
softly, as did Shamus, who was at his side. 

Faith, then, captain, dear,” said Long- 
sword with a droll twinkle in his eye, *^iPs 
a queer thing indeed if ye don't know the 
flag of your own country.” 

“ Of my own country ! ” 

To be sure, for I take ye to be an 
American.” 

You are correct in that,” said the skip- 
per proudly. But I've never seen that flag 
before.” 

“No wonder,” said Ethan, “for I very 
much doubt if it ever flew above a ship's deck 
before. It is the new flag of the United 
States, recently adopted. I saw the first one 
not so long ago. Indeed, I had the honor of 
carrying it from the home of mistress Betsy 
Ross, who made it, to the State House ; and 
I remember that the members of the Con- 
gress and General Washington, who was in 
the capitol at the time, admired it very 
much.” 

“ Well, the design is an improvement over 
the old rattle-snake and pine-tree flags,” ad- 
mitted the captain, after careful inspection. 


48 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

** It looks well when it ripples in the breeze, 
doesn’t it? ” 

The schooner had drawn near the war ship, 
and the mate hailed her. 

Ahoy ! is that the American ship. 
Ranger ? ” 

“ It is,” came the prompt reply from the 
deck of the other vessel. 

“ We are going to send a boat to you.” 

Heave ahead, my hearty.” 

A skiff was lowered over the schooner’s 
stern, and Ethan and Longs word were rowed to 
the war ship’s side and clambered to the deck. 

“ Well, sir,” demanded a harsh looking 
man in the dress of a lieutenant. 

'' I desire to see Captain Jones, if he 
is aboard,” said Ethan, quietly. 

“ The captain is very busy just now. I 
am Lieutenant Simpson, and will attend 
to any business that you may have.” 

There was a studied affront in the man’s 
manner that angered Ethan ; but he replied, 
still quietly : 

“ My business is with the commander of 
this ship in person, if you please.” 

‘‘You will state your business to me, or 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 49 

you go over the side/’ rapped out the harsh 
faced lieutenant. 

“ I will do neither one nor the other. I 
am here upon a special errand of much im- 
portance, and if Captain Jones is in the ship 
I demand to see him.” 

The lieutenant burst into a tirade of abuse, 
which made Longsword stiffen and glare 
menacingly with his hand upon his hilt. 
But just then there came a light, brisk step 
upon the deck and a calm voice asked, 

** Mr. Simpson, what is all this ado about ? ” 
The first officer of the Ranger colored a 
trifle, and turning, said : 

This boy was impudent.” 

Ah I In what way ? ” 

“ He — he asked to see you.” 

A low laugh of amusement greeted this 
statement. 

'' Well, I must say that I see no great im- 
pudence in that.” The speaker turned to 
Ethan, and continued : Do you wish to 
speak to me? ” 

Are you Captain John Paul Jones ? ” 
asked the lad. 

I am.” 


50 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Ethan stared in surprise. The fame of this 
new and brilliant sea chief was so great that 
he had, somehow, expected to see a huge and 
formidable man with fierce, weather-beaten 
features and the bearing of a buccaneer. But 
instead he found before him a rather small, 
slightly-built young man with a brisk air, a 
pair of the keenest dark eyes in the world, 
and a pleasant, resolute face. 

I beg your pardon,” stammered the lad, 
after he had recovered from his surprise and 
realized that he had been staring. He drew 
out a paper which the president of Congress 
had given him, and handed it to the young 
commander of the Ranger. The latter broke 
the seal, and as he unfolded the sheet of stiff 
paper Ethan had a glimpse of the beautifully 
regular handwriting of Mr. Hancock. A 
glance was sufficient to show John Paul Jones 
the purport of the missive. He glanced at 
Ethan in some surprise and then said : 

'' Will you kindly come down to my cabin ? ” 

Ethan descended after him, and when once 
they were within the cabin and the door 
closed, the commander of the Ranger con- 
tinued : 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 51 

“ I was expecting the packet which you 
bring, but hardly expected so youthful a 
messenger.” 

Ethan smiled. John Paul Jones was a 
gentleman who possessed the knack of man- 
ner that causes strangers to feel at their ease ; 
and the boy replied : 

“ And I hardly expected to find the captain 
of this ship so young a man.” 

*^Age on the sea,” said John Paul Jones, 
humorously, ‘‘ comes with experience and not 
with years.” He regarded Ethan closely for 
a moment, and proceeded shrewdly, And for 
all your youth, you are not a stranger to blue 
water, I take it.” 

I made my first voyage at five,” answered 
Ethan, and witnessed my first sea fight 
through an empty port-hole. At ten I 
swarmed up to the royal yards of my father’s 
ship with a musket as tall as myself and 
helped to beat off an Algerian corsair just 
off the African coast.” 

Captain Jones held out his hand, which the 
boy promptly clasped. 

''Good,” said the former. "1 like that; 
and now sit down and tell me all that Mr. 


52 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Hancock and Mr. Jefferson had to say about 
this business.'^ 

They seated themselves at the cabin table 
and Ethan proceeded to relate all that the 
president of Congress and the great Virginian 
had told him. And all the while he watched 
the mobile face before him, and an under- 
current of thought examined the history of 
the sailor as he had heard it from Mr. Jeffer- 
son some months before. 

John Paul Jones was born on July 6th, in 
the year 1747, in a cottage on the estate of 
Arbigland, in the county of Kirkcudbright, 
Scotland ; and his parents had been very poor 
and humble people indeed. It was a stern, 
wild place ; to the rear was a lofty and rugged 
mountain, to the front was the wide Solway, 
where as a child he could by daylight see the 
white sails of the ships, and by night hear 
the solemn strokes of their deep-toned bells. 
He came to love the sea with a great love ; 
he played at being sailor when he scarce 
could toddle, and his favorite toys were the 
little ships which an elder brother would 
make for him. 

He went to sea at the age of twelve, and at 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 53 

twenty was a captain in the Scottish merchant- 
man, John, sailing out of Whitehaven. Com- 
ing to America to settle the estate of a brother 
who died in Virginia he had remained, and 
upon the breaking out of the war between the 
colonies and England he had entered the in- 
fant navy as first-lieutenant of the Alfred. 

When Ethan had finished he drew out the 
packet of papers sealed with the big splotches 
of red wax, and John Paul Jones locked it 
carefully away in a heavy, oaken chest. 

Mr. Hancock was right,^’ said he to Ethan. 
“ Everything depends upon an alliance with 
France. With the help that her heavy fleets 
would render us, the troops that she could 
send now and then, and above all the embar- 
rassment that a war between her and England 
would cause the latter country, we could gain 
a peace with perfect freedom and honor.’’ 

They talked for some time, and then the 
conversation drifted upon the subject of the 
Ranger. 

Yes,” said her captain, she is a new ship. 
It was at first thought to have her carry 
twenty-six guns ; but I saw at once that she 
was too slight in structure to carry so heavy 


54 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

a battery, so I have mounted but eighteen 
six-pounders. And when 1 get her into a 
French port Pm going to make some changes 
that I think the trip across the Atlantic will 
show to be necessary.^’ 

Ethan and Shamus secured lodgings in the 
town until such time as the ship would sail. 
Much trouble was experienced in shipping a 
crew. The seamen demanded advance money, 
and the commander was forced to pay it to 
them out of his own private funds, as Congress 
sent him none for the purpose. And indeed 
this was no new thing for this brave and gen- 
erous officer to do, as Ethan subsequently dis- 
covered. The government was already in his 
debt to the amount of seven thousand dollars ; 
and he had once fitted the brig Providence for 
sea, paying every copper of the expense. 

It was in the month of October that the 
Ranger, everything being ready, finally 
dropped down the bay and squared away for 
France. Ethan and Longsword were provided 
with sleeping quarters with the younger offi- 
cer of the ship and took their meals in the 
gun room. Mr. Simpson and Mr. Hall the 
first and second officers, were grumbling, dis- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES * 55 

contented men, and before John Paul Jones 
was done with them they gave him much 
trouble. The third officer, Mr. Wallingford, 
was a pleasant, good humored young man 
with a fund of bright stories and much ability 
as a sailor. 

From the first, Simpson did all he could to 
annoy Ethan ; he had undertaken to do the 
same for Longs word, but the first petty act of 
malice in this direction brought such a long, 
steady, menacing stare from that grim faced 
trooper that the thing was not repeated. 

“ Mr. Simpson seems not to like me,'' said 
Ethan, on the second day out, to Mr. Walling- 
ford. 

You are apparently a friend to Captain 
Jones," said the third lieutenant. And as a 
man with half an eye can see, he hates the 
captain like poison." 

“ And why? " 

Just because he's the skipper, I suppose," 
said Wallingford, with a shrug. Simpson is 
one of those men who hate all those who are 
placed over them. He got his rank by influ- 
ence, and fancies that the command should 
have been given him." 


56 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

** I wouldn’t like to sail under him/’ said 
Ethan. 

** It is rather a good thing that you don’t 
belong to the ship,” agreed Wallingford. 
** He’d make life a burden for you, if you 
did.” 

And not belonging to the ship I have a 
right to resent insult even from the first lieu- 
tenant,” said Ethan Carlyle. ^‘And if Mr. 
Simpson continues as he has he’ll find that I 
know how.” 

Wallingford glanced over the lithe, supple, 
springy young fellow and realized that these 
words were no idle vaporings and that the 
power and will were behind them to make 
them good. 

“ Perhaps you may have a chance to show 
what you can do in the fighting way before 
we reach Nantes,” said the young third lieu- 
tenant. I heard Simpson among the mid- 
dies at eight bells last night trying to get one 
of them to thrash you.” 

Ethan’s eyes flashed and his hands clinched. 

I trust he didn’t succeed,” said he. For 
the midshipmen of the Ranger struck me as 
being a rather decent lot.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 57 

'' They are/' said Wallingford. '' And none 
of them would accept his hints. But he didn't 
stop there. There is a Canadian master's mate 
on board, a hulking, savage sort of fellow. 
Simpson has been talking to him ; so you'd 
better look out unless you want to complain 
to the skipper." 

I'll not do that," answered Ethan deter- 
minedly. “ I've always fought my own bat- 
tles, and mean to continue to do so." 

** I think he — Simpson, I mean — judged you 
to be one of that kind, and he's just mean 
enough to take advantage of it." 

Ethan told Shamus of this that same even- 
ing as they paced the deck together. 

The master's mate, is it ? " said the dragoon. 

Well, I've noticed that same fellow to-day 
as he kicked and swore at the small lads and 
mild looking men in the crew. He's a stout 
lump of a fellow wid a wicked look, so if there 
is to be ructions wid him. Master Ethan, leave 
him to me, and I'll engage not to leave a 
whole bone in his body, so I will." 

Ethan laughed at his companion's enthu- 
siasm, but replied, 

I'd very much prefer it were Simpson 


58 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

himself, if it comes to a fight ; but of course 
that is out of the question on board ; it would 
not do for the first officer upon an American 
sloop-of-war to engage in a fracas with a pas- 
senger ; Captain Jones would not permit 
it.” 

As they were, shortly afterward, about to go 
below for the night, Shamus laid his hand 
upon Ethan's arm. 

Master Ethan,” said he, Pm going to tell 
ye something that will surprise ye.” 

Ethan looked into the grim, scarred face of 
Longsword and was astonished to see that it 
was anxious and troubled looking. 

What is it? ” he asked. 

In the second dog watch I came on deck,” 
said the Irishman, and the first person me 
two eyes fell upon as I took me foot from the 
top step of the ladder was — guess ? ” 

“ I can't.” 

It was the brown man that listened at the 
window.” 

“ Impossible I ” 

That's what I should have said meself, 
jewel, if I hadn't seen him as plain as day. 
And he had the crooked knife in his belt that 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 59 

I imagined him wid the other night on the 
Island Queen/’ 

“Are you quite positive it was the same 
man ? ” 

“ I’m as sure of it as I am that I am talk- 
ing wid ye at this minute.” 

“ But what is he doing on the Ranger? ” 

“ Sure he’s a sailor, so he is ; the bos’en 
told me that he shipped on the day we sailed.” 

Next day Ethan questioned Wallingford. 

“A brown fellow, eh?” mused the ship’s 
third officer. “ Let me see ! Oh, yes, I re- 
member. He’s a Lascar, I think, and gave 
the name of Siki. I signed him and the 
master’s mate whom I told you about yester- 
day. They seem to be great cronies. Always 
to be found in odd corners, whispering away 
like all possessed.” 

Ethan waited until he saw the Lascar with 
his own eyes before he was satisfied. Then 
he went to Captain Jones, and told him all 
that he knew about the man. 

“ So you think that this fellow, Siki, as he 
calls himself, had something to do with the 
attack upon the schooner in Delaware Bay?” 
said the commander sternly. 


6o WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


** I feel sure of it, sir ; though of course I 
did not see him.’’ 

** And you think that he was after the packet 
given you by Mr. Hancock ? ” 

‘‘ I think so — yes.” 

Then he also shipped with us in the hope 
of still getting his hands upon it, somehow. 
I’ll have Simpson clap the villain in irons.” 

Ethan hastily laid his hand upon the cap- 
tain’s arm. 

See,” said he, pointing to the after battery, 
where the tawny Lascar was busying himself 
rubbing down one of the six pounders under 
the direction of the gunner’s mate, there he 
is, now. And I hardly think he’s the prime 
mover in the matter.” 

No,” said John Paul Jones, it does not 
seem likely. He is more apt to be a subtle, 
deft-handed instrument, used by a superior 
mind.” 

Would it not be wise,” suggested Ethan, 
“ for you to hold your hand a bit longer ; we 
might also be able to capture the master as 
well as the man.” 

The commander patted him on the shoulder 
approvingly. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 6i 


“ Excellent/' said he, nodding his head. 

That is just what we will do. The Lascar 
can be laid by the heels any time we choose 
to do it ; it's the mysterious fellow in the 
shadow that is the dangerous one. We will 
leave the trap open — and we will wait for him 
to show himself." 


CHAPTER V 


HOW ETHAN CARLYLE FACED THE BULLY OF 
THE RANGER 

The knowledge displayed by Ethan in the 
working of a ship during the first week out, 
and his ready courage in the taking of a couple 
of British prizes, won the regard of the Ranger’s 
tars, and he was ever a welcome visitor to the 
forecastle when he chose to go there. Many 
were the yarns they told him of voyages with 
Barry, Murray, Whipple and other hearts of 
oak ; and many were those he told in return 
of strange seas, strange ports and stranger 
people. 

He had finished telling of an adventure in 
the China Sea in his grandfather’s ship. War- 
lock ; and during the appreciative pause that 
followed, the silence was rudely broken by a 
loud, sneering laugh. 

‘‘ He pulls a long bow for a youngster,” 
said a voice ; “and you seasoned tars sit around 

62 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 63 

and draw it in like sucking pigs their mam- 
my’s milk.” 

Ethan flushed scarlet, and a murmur went 
up from the watch below. But it was the 
master’s mate that spoke, a huge-chested 
Canadian named Blake ; and no one among 
the seamen dared to resent his words, for in 
his week among them he had, by his rufiian- 
ism, cowed them all. A few, at the begin- 
ning, had dared to defy him ; but his brawny 
flsts had soon beaten them into submission. 
Indeed, by this time, the forecastle had come 
to be a sort of grill upon which the bully 
toasted his shipmates one after the other and 
laughed at their helpless squirming. 

Ethan made no reply to the man’s remark. 
Longsword, who sat with his broad back 
against the heel of the bowsprit, grew crimson, 
and two sharp points of light shot into his 
eyes ; but he made no movement ; since the 
death of Ethan’s father he had come to look 
upon the lad as his superior officer, and so 
strong was the military idea flxed in his mind 
that he never took an important step without 
orders. 

The master’s mate took a seat upon an up- 


64 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

turned tub and regarded his mates with a 
sneering smile. 

It’s amusing,” said he, to stand and 
watch you taking in all the plum duff that 
this boy gives you. I suppose,” with a sig- 
nificant laugh, you’re duty bound to do it 
because he’s a friend to the skipper.” 

Still there was no reply ; Ethan sat still, 
never even glancing at the man ; the seamen 
shifted uneasily in their places ; they felt as- 
sured that the bully meant to pick a quarrel 
with Ethan, and while they did not like it, 
his demeanor had so awed them that they 
dared not interfere. Blake seemed to have 
mapped out his plan of action well in advance, 
and proceeded. 

“ It may be an honor to be a friend to a 
captain, but I don’t know. What sort of cap- 
tains have you in this American navy of 
yours? I’ve sailed in British ships, and I tell 
you they wouldn’t let your skippers swab the 
quarter deck.” 

Still he got no answer, though there was no 
lack of scowling looks directed at him. 

And this Captain Jones,” he went on, his 
face alive with malice, '' was one time named 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 65 

Paul, I hear, just plain John Paul. He was 
drove out of the British merchant service for 
killing a sailor by flogging, and he come to 
America and changed his name.^’ 

Ethan had come to admire John Paul Jones 
greatly since he came aboard the Ranger, and 
this repetition of an old slander aroused him 
at once. 

“ If you know anything about the matter at 
all,” said he quietly, you know that what 
you say is false ! ” 

WhaPs that?” shouted the bully, leaping 
to his feet. 

I said it was false. It was a thing in- 
vented by his enemies ; when he defled them 
and invited them to prove it, they feared to 
come forward.” 

Maybe,” spoke the master's mate, folding 
his thick arms across his bulging chest, “ you 
think that I am afraid to come forward, as you 
call it.” 

“ It seems to me,” said Ethan as he rose 
slowly to his feet, “ that you are too ready to 
bluster and bully people whom you think will 
not fight.” His voice had been low and his 
movements of the most deliberate as he said 


66 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


this. Then suddenly his manner changed ; 
like a flash he stripped off* his woolen shirt 
and cried, sharply : “ Get ready ; I^m going to 
make you prove what you’ve said.” 

Longsword came to his feet like a shot, and 
two long strides took him to Ethan’s side. 
The boy’s bared body gleamed like satin un- 
der the glare of the ship’s lanterns, and the 
strong fingers of the Irish trooper at once be- 
gan kneading the long, supple muscles of the 
arms, chest and back and performing other 
services that his years of experience told him 
would be of benefit. 

Blake stood, for a moment, dumbfounded, 
unable to credit his eyes ; there was a clatter- 
ing of draught boards as sailors who had been 
playing sprung up, a hissing of sharply in- 
drawn breath, and then a ring of human bodies 
formed in a twinkling ; a circle of tense faces 
showed the interest that was excited in the 
breasts of all. 

The master’s mate was slow of brain ; but 
when he at last realized that a combat was in- 
evitable, he manifested much savage satisfac- 
tion. 

“ I’ve got you safe now,” said he, as he 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 67 

stripped off his shirt in turn. And 111 beat 
you so badly that youll think keel-hauling is 
play in comparison.’’ 

You’ll never beat him by talking about it, 
my bucko,” said Longsword, grimly, still 
grooming his principal in a very workman- 
like manner. 

In a moment the two had faced each other. 
The bulk of the Canadian seaman and the 
slenderness of the young American were now, 
more than ever, evident. But Blake was 
muscle bound, ponderous in his movements 
and scant of wind ; nevertheless he was a for- 
midable foe, for his bulk suggested power, and 
his cruel expression denoted a merciless na- 
ture. 

Ethan’s frame was strong, but needed the 
filling that years would bring ; his muscles, 
thanks to the effort of Longsword, were those 
of a trained athlete, but when compared with 
the bully he looked almost frail. 

The watch below noted all this ; they also 
saw the panther-like grace with which the lad 
advanced to the centre of the human ring, and 
marked the lumbering movements of Blake as 
he did likewise. 


68 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


** Mind yourself,” warned the Irish dragoon 
as he sent his man forward. Don’t let him 
clinch. He’ll have ye then, Master Ethan.” 

The two met in the centre and raised their 
guards. Ethan’s was free, swinging and low ; 
Blake’s was high and held as rigid as iron. 
With short cat-like steps Ethan wove in and 
out ; the bully watched him narrowly ; the 
regular opening and closing of his hands 
showed that he was meditating a rush — a grap- 
ple — and then Ethan would be at his mercy. 
The great weight of the man must crush the 
slighter boy to the deck. 

Around and around crept the soft-footed 
young athlete ; Blake wheeled constantly to 
face him, still holding his high, rigid guard. 
Suddenly the man’s bulging muscles grew 
tense ; Ethan knew that another moment 
would bring the expected rush ; with the speed 
of lightning his right shot out and landed a 
smashing blow in the other’s wind ; then he 
went dancing away, a smile upon his lips. 
The lad continued to follow these tactics. 
Every time Blake stepped in to clinch, Ethan’s 
left hand would dart in a quick stab. Each 
succeeding failure to get within reach made 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 69 

Blake more and more ferocious ; the lad’s tan- 
talizing smile, and Longsword’s words of ad- 
vice, served to almost madden him. 

He began to make savage, bull-like rushes ; 
his thick arms thrashed like flails. Laughter 
came from the watch below as he failed again 
and yet again. Ethan had expected much 
more from his huge opponent ; a growing con- 
tempt took possession of him ; he began to 
step in and out with little or no caution ; his 
second called to him frantically to be careful, 
but he paid no heed. 

A gleam of cunning shot through the brain 
of the panting giant ; he drew in his breath 
in gasps ; his movements were labored ; his 
knees seemed to quiver beneath him. 

Finish him,” came the cry from the sail- 
ors, delighting in the bully’s defeat. 

Longsword shouted his warnings madly, 
but Ethan was after his foe like a flash, and 
driving in short, jarring blows with all the 
power of his athletic young body. Suddenly 
Blake’s burly form stiffened and lurched for- 
ward ; his great arms whirled, and one brawny 
fist landed with terrific force upon Ethan’s 
body. It was his first blow of the battle. 


70 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Ethan went white and swayed weakly, his 
hands groping blindly. With a savage grin 
Blake dashed at him. 

Down,” yelled Longsword desperately. 
The reeling brain of the sorely hurt boy just 
managed to grasp the meaning of this advice, 
and he sank to his knees just in time to escape 
the shattering blow that passed above his head. 

Stand off,” snarled the Irish dragoon as he 
worked like mad over his pupil. He turned 
his face to glare over his shoulder at Blake, 
and the great scar across it seemed to burn 
like fire. 

A friendly hand dashed cold water over 
Ethan’s bare back ; the shock cleared the 
lad’s head, and clinging to Longsword he 
regained his feet, his breath wheezing in his 
throat, his chest laboring in great spasmodic 
sobs. 

At this point the ring at the side nearest 
the forecastle hatch opened and Captain Paul 
Jones appeared ; behind him showed the face 
of Lieutenant Simpson, wrinkled with mali- 
cious satisfaction. The commander half raised 
his hand for a gesture that would have stopped 
the combat ; but he paused, hesitated ; then 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 71 

he caught the appeal in Ethan’s wide open 
eyes. He nodded quickly. The crowd drew 
a breath of relief. The fight was to go on. 

Longsword sluiced more water over his 
charge, taking care to stand between him and 
his opponent, so as to give him the benefit of 
every second’s delay. 

“ Stand out of the way,” raved Blake. 
** Play fair, there ! ” 

Fair play,” came from all hands. They 
almost to a man desired to see Blake defeated ; 
but it must be done fairly. Ethan shoved 
Shamus aside and faced his foe once more, 
pale and perceptibly weak. 

The bully rushed, but Ethan evaded him. 
With each passing moment the boy felt the 
glow of fresh life stealing through his numbed 
limbs, and to avoid the heavy plunges of 
Blake grew easy once more. He began again 
to rock the other’s head with his straight 
shoulder drives. But, for all this, he found 
himself, little by little, being driven back to 
the side of the ring, Blake pressing eagerly 
after him. Now and then Ethan would dart 
in a stinging hit ; the man would shake his 
head in a bull-like motion, but still come on. 


72 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

At length the lad could retreat no farther ; 
he was preparing to feint and dart aside when 
he stumbled over an outstretched foot. He 
shouted for those behind him to take notice, 
and then stumbled again. There came an 
answering cry from the vigilant Longsword, 
who hurled himself across the ring and struck 
down the Lascar, Siki, whose treacherous foot 
was stretched into Ethan’s way. 

The young American’s attention was taken 
by this incident for a moment ; then Blake 
came driving at him like a bison ; Ethan was 
penned up, his back to the throng of seamen, 
with no hope of escape by his usual tactics of 
retreat. 

So he braced himself and met the rush with 
all the power of his square young shoulders. 
Once, twice, thrice he struck, throwing his 
head from side to side to avoid the swinging 
hits of the other. Then, suddenly, he felt 
Blake’s big body give before his blows ; the 
next instant he was standing gazing with 
dazed eyes, at the prostrate form of the 
Ranger’s bully as he lay, with wide flung 
arms, upon the deck. 


CHAPTER VI 


WHAT HAPPENED BY NIGHT IN THE HARBOR 
OF NANTES 

On the evening of December 2d, the 
Ranger’s cut-water sundered the ripples of 
Nantes harbor for the first time, and finding a 
safe and convenient anchorage, Captain Jones 
ordered the bow anchors let go and the ship 
stripped. 

It was a middy who had informed the 
commander of what was going forward 
in the forecastle upon the night of Ethan 
Carlyle’s encounter with Blake. After much 
persuasion Ethan was induced to tell the 
cause of the struggle. The captain listened 
with wrinkled brows. 

It was Simpson who told the man that,” 
said he at length. He dislikes me and takes 
no pains to conceal it. Before long he’ll have 
the crew demoralized. When an officer sets 
the example of insubordination the ship’s 
company rapidly follow in his wake.” 

73 


74 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

. That night in the French harbor, the officer 
paced his quarter-deck with Ethan by his side. 
All was quiet ; the gleam of ships’ lamps shot 
thinly across the dark waters ; the low mur- 
murous sound of the seamen came from the 
forward part of the vessel. The three lieu- 
tenants and some of the crew had gone ashore. 
Next day the commander, Ethan and Long- 
sword were to start for Paris with the secret 
instructions for Benjamin Franklin. 

Ethan saw that a cloud was upon the 
spirit of the great seaman, so he did not 
speak ; at last the officer himself broke the 
silence. 

I have not yet thanked you,” said he. 
“ But I do so now.” 

Thanked me,” exclaimed Ethan, in sur- 
prise. 

“ For defending my good name, I mean. I 
have had many enemies, my lad, and few 
friends ; it is comforting to think that I have 
gained a new one.” 

I should think,” said Ethan, after a pause, 
‘‘ that one like you would have no lack of 
friends. There is not an American worthy of 
the title but what pronounces the name of 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 75 

John Paul Jones with admiration. You are 
known in every hamlet and town throughout 
the colonies ; your deeds upon the sea in the 
cause of liberty are upon every lip.” 

The moody captain smiled and patted his 
young companion upon the shoulder kindly. 

“ It’s kind of you to say this ; and I appre- 
ciate it all the more because I know that you 
mean it. But fame does not always bring 
content, my boy, nor friends. Two years ago 
I should have been proud of the command of 
a ship like this, now I aspire to command 
fleets ; and then, again, I sometimes catch 
myself wondering if the people who seem 
glad to grasp the hand of John Paul Jones, 
victor in some sea fights, would have been 
equally glad to have greeted plain John Paul, 
emigrant.” 

Ethan shook his head. 

I suppose not,” he answered. 

They continued talking in this strain for 
some time. Longsword came on deck after a 
time and also began to pace slowly up and 
down, in the waist. At length the subject 
shifted to the secret instructions of Congress. 

“ There does not seem to be any one in the 


76 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

ship,” said Ethan, “ who is at all familiar 
with the Lascar but Blake.” 

“ And he is not the master mind, that’s 
sure,” smiled the captain. ‘‘ Siki is of greater 
intelligence by far.” 

The man who sent him to steal the secret 
dispatch is not in the vessel,” decided Ethan, 
who had thought much upon this point dur- 
ing the run across. 

** My own conclusion exactly,” said the com- 
mander. “ As like as not the directing mind 
of the plot will turn up there,” and he waved 
his hand toward the city. “ But,” with a 
short laugh, he will hear nothing of his 
agent, nor will he secure the coveted docu- 
ment. Before dawn Siki will be in irons ; 
and the papers are safe in the strong box in 
my cabin.” 

I noted the sentry at the cabin door all 
the way out,” said Ethan approvingly. “ And 
I suppose you examined the chest fre- 
quently? ” 

Twice a day, to see that it was not tam- 
pered with. And the sentries were, in every 
instance, men whom I could trust.” 

Here one of the middies advanced and drew 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 77 

the commander’s attention to something for- 
ward. Ethan joined Longsword in the waist. 

“We start to-morrow, then?” said the 
trooper. 

“ Yes ; after daybreak. Lieutenant Wall- 
ingford has procured us horses, so there will 
be no delay.” 

“ It seems to me, Master Ethan,” grumbled 
Longsword, ill-humoredly, “ that the captain 
is making a great mistake.” 

“ In what respect? ” 

“ In not keeping guard over the cabin door. 
When we were in mid-ocean and no man 
could escape he were very strict in that way ; 
but now when there is a chance for some 
bla’guard to steal the secret and swim ashore, 
it’s leave the cabin unguarded he do be after 
doing.” 

“ Unguarded ! ” 

“ I passed there not five minutes ago. There 
were no one in sight and the place was in 
darkness. I lit the lamp in the companion- 
way and looked about, for sure I had me sus- 
picions. But there was no one in sight, good 
or bad.” 

“ That is very strange,” said Ethan. “ I 


78 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

was just now speaking to the captain about 
that very point and understood that the sentry 
was still a fixture at the cabin door.” 

He paused a moment, hesitating ; then he 
said quietly : 

“ I will return in a moment.” 

With quick steps he advanced to the com- 
panionway and descended. 

“ Dark ! ” he muttered, as his eyes tried 
vainly to pierce the blackness. “ And Shamus 
said he had lit the lamp. This looks strange. 
Why it would almost seem that some one had ” 
— he caught his breath at the thought — 
“ blown it out.” 

Creeping along in the darkness toward the 
commander’s cabin, his groping hands found 
the door. 

It was open ! 

He paused, standing upright, unable to 
think what next to do. Then his ears caught 
a slight, unmistakable rustling. 

''Who’s there?” he called sharply. 

There was no response. The rustling 
ceased. For a moment he listened intently, 
then advanced boldly into the cabin. 

" There is some one here,” he said, clearly. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 79 

‘‘You might as well acknowledge yourself now 
as later/^ 

Scarcely had the words left his mouth than 
he was thrown violently aside, and a form 
rushed past him through the doorway and up 
the companion ladder. 

Ethan shouted a warning to the deck as he 
scrambled up. Quick footsteps sounded from 
above, then a sharp cry, and a heavy report. 

When he gained the deck, he saw Captain 
Jones, pale of face and with a trickle of blood 
coming from his forehead, leaning against a 
gun. The Irish dragoon stood by the taprail, 
blowing the smoke from the long barrel of a 
pistol and peering downward into the waters 
of the harbor. 

“ He’s overboard, sir,” spoke Shamus, 
quietly. 

A quick-witted middy had given the word 
to lower a boat ; and when a few moments 
later this pulled away in search of the daring 
swimmer, Ethan and Longsword followed the 
commander below. 

The companion way lamp was lighted once 
more, and a search showed the sentry sense- 
less beneath a piece of sail cloth. The lock 


8o WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


of the cabin door was broken, but the strong 
box was securely fastened. 

“ I'll open it and make sure," said Captain 
Jones. 

When the lid was thrown back, the first 
object that struck their eyes was a sealed 
packet ; and they drew long sighs of re- 
lief. 

You interrupted him before he could com- 
plete his work," said the commander after he 
had heard the statements of the two. Doubt- 
less he had overpowered the sentry and had 
not yet forced the door when O'Moore came 
along and re-lit the lamp. Then when left 
alone once more he broke in, extinguished 
the light and was searching for the papers 
with the aid of this," holding up the stump 
of a tallow candle, when he was interrupted 
the second time. He was a daring villain, 
and another five minutes would have sufficed 
him." 

Returning to the deck, after re-locking the 
chest and placing two men under charge of a 
midshipman to guard the cabin, they found 
that the boat had returned. 

He's either got well off or been drowned. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 8i 


sir/^ reported the middy in command. “We 
could see nothing of him.^^ 

“ Pipe all hands on deck/' directed John 
Paul Jones. 

The boatswain's call rang through the ship 
and soon the crew were assembled. When 
Blake’s name was called in the roll a man 
answered : 

“ Gone ashore, sir, on leave.” 

The finish of the roll call showed only one 
man unaccounted for. That was the Lascar, 
Siki. When the men had been dismissed, the 
captain turned to Ethan and said gravely : 

“ It is just as I expected. It was the Lascar, 
and the chances are that he is safely ashore at 
this moment.” 

“ And making ready to treat us to another 
surprise, I have no doubt.” 

“We shall hear from him again, rest as- 
sured. It seems to me that the ride from 
Nantes to Paris may prove a very eventful 
one.” 


CHAPTER VII 


HOW LONGSWORD STRUCK HOME 

Shortly after daybreak next morning John 
Paul Jones left the Ranger in charge of his 
first officer, who had come on board ; and 
then he and Ethan and Longsword took horse 
and started upon the road to Paris. 

“ The French seem hungry for news,^^ said 
Captain Jones, as they rode along. 

I suppose the British ministry has received 
tidings of Burgoyne’s disaster before this,^^ 
said Ethan. “ It will set them in a panic 
when it does come, anyway, and theyJl be 
ready to grant some concessions, I dare say.” 

“ Nothing succeeds like success,” remarked 
the captain of the Ranger. “ For a nation to 
be free she must first be strong and show a 
disposition to use her strength.” 

“ I donT think,” spoke the boy shrewdly, 
“ that this turn of affairs will hurt the hoped- 
for alliance with France. I fancy that France 
has held off as much through desire not to 
82 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 83 

commit herself as anything else. The loss of 
the great colonies across the sea would weaken 
England ; and France wants her weakened. 
Rather than see a peace made with the states 
still as colonies and a source of strength to 
her foe, France will cast her sword into the 
scale and it will be in our favor.’’ 

A good thought,” smiled the captain. 

You have not sat at the feet of Mr. Jefferson 
for nothing, I see.” 

“ Mr. Jefferson is a great man,” replied 
Ethan. 

very great man,” returned John Paul 
Jones. It takes a crisis like this present 
one to bring out the quality of a people ; and 
then the temper of a few is bound to ring 
true.” 

The horses upon which they were mounted 
were good ones and they put the miles behind 
them rapidly. 

This country of France,” observed Captain 
Jones during the course of the day, “ is a fine 
one, but the people of the peasant class seem 
an overworked, underfed lot.” 

**They do indeed,” agreed Ethan. ‘'Look 
at that group there,” pointing to an aged 


84 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

man, a young woman, apparently his daugh- 
ter, and a few children, who stood together in 
a cottage door to see them ride by. There 
has been little else but want and gloom in 
those lives, I’ll venture to say. Freedom is 
not worshiped here, no matter how much the 
French say they admire the desire for it in 
us.” 

I always thought,” observed Longsword 
as they passed a row of miserable huts, “ that 
the poor people of Ireland were the worst 
housed in the world. But, faith, the French 
beat them. Sure a Galway beggar would turn 
up the nose of him at a house like one of 
those.” 

The people seem to lack spirit, too,” ob- 
served Ethan. '' They are sullen and lower- 
ing in their looks sometimes, but they have 
the appearance of having given up all hope 
of betterment, long ago.” 

I don’t think they ever possessed even 
the shadow of a hope,” said the captain, 
“ nor their fathers nor grandfathers before 
them, for that matter. However, a better- 
ment will come some day ; and then let the 
gilded idlers, who crushed this people into 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 85 

the earth and brutalized them so, beware ! 
That day will dawn red, I think, and will 
leave a gory mark upon the pages of his- 
tory.” 

Evening had already come on when they 
halted at an inn and applied for accommoda- 
tions. The landlord was a small ferret of a 
man with a furtive manner and a sidelong 
look ; he received them with smiles, but his 
little red eyes seemed to be calculating how 
much they would willingly pay for supper 
and lodgings. 

The groom will take your horses, mon- 
sieurs,” fawned he, as a stout looking lout 
came forward, from a tumble down building 
with a rotten looking roof of thatch. “ He 
will feed them corn, monsieurs, and give 
them dry beds and a rubbing that will make 
them feel like colts.” 

Vve seen better-favored fellows than this 
spalpeen run away wid a horse before now,” 
remarked Longsword, who knew no French, 
and only understood what was being said by 
the movements of the others. “ Do you 
think we’d better trust them to him. Master 
Ethan ? ” 


86 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


Oh, I suppose so,” said Ethan. “ They’ll 
be safe enough.” 

“ I don’t believe they have a bed in the 
place that’s fit to sleep on,” grumbled the 
old dragoon, as they entered the inn. ‘‘ And 
look at that little fox of a fellow wid his 
smirks and his smiles. Faith, I’ll see to me 
bit of money while I’m here, so I will. I 
never yet trusted one of these sugary villains 
that ye meet by the roadside. He may be the 
biggest thief in all France for all we know.” 

John Paul Jones laughed good humoredly 
at this. 

Well, O’Moore,” said he, “ it’s fortunate 
that our host does not understand English ; 
he’d not be at all flattered at your estimate 
of him, could he do so.” 

The food provided them was poor, coarse 
and ill served. The landlord hovered about 
while they ate and told them what a splendid 
place the inn was when his grandfather was 
its owner. 

“ It’s sorry enough I am,” remarked Long- 
sword as he looked with distaste at the piece 
of sour, black bread which he held in his 
hand, “ that your grandfather is not here to 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 87 

see how you are ruining the reputation he 
worked so hard for. Sure this bread was 
made widout salt, and the grain must have 
been mixed wid sawdust and gravel.” 

Ethan had translated the landlord’s re- 
marks for the Irishman’s benefit ; the ferret- 
like Frenchman seemed to understand that 
Shamus was not pleased with the fare, and 
proceeded : 

“ In the old days, monsieurs, the ' Bur- 
gundian King ’ was most magnificent ! But 
that was when this road was used by the 
nobles in their grand chariots. For a slight 
service they would fling one a golden Louis 
as round as that,” drawing a circle in the 
palm of one hand with the forefinger of the 
other. “ And the ‘ King ’ was in good repair 
and very much larger than it is now. At 
times, monsieurs, and I tell you no falsehood, 
we’ve had dukes and princes of the blood 
sleep under this roof.” 

The host waited for some expression of 
wonderment at this news ; but as none came 
he ceased ; and a short time later the three 
withdrew into a smaller room in which a good 
fire was burning. 


88 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


Through the open door Longsword could 
see the landlord and his people moving about 
their affairs ; he fancied that he caught them 
whispering and casting sidelong looks now 
and then, and began to feel troubled for the 
safety of the horses. At last he could stand 
it no longer and arose to his feet. 

“ I believe,” said he, I’ll go out and give 
an eye to the cattle. Something tells me that 
they are not as safe as they might be.” 

“ Oh, I wouldn’t trouble, Shamus, if I were 
you,” said Ethan. They’ll do very well out 
there. You’re prejudiced against these poor 
people, that’s all.” 

It’s not their poverty that prejudices me 
against them, then. It’s their looks and their 
ways. I’ve come across thieving rogues 
a-plenty in my time, sir, and these have the 
same look, so they have — and worse.” 

Captain Jones and Ethan sat for some time 
engaged in conversation relating to the strug- 
gle for independence ; they had been at the 
inn for some hours and the night had fallen 
long since, black and complete. As they 
talked they caught the sound of hoofs ap- 
proaching along the road toward the hostelry. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 89 

“ More guests,’’ said the captain, crossing his 
legs comfortably before the fire, and enjoying 
the pleasant warmth. 

The host and his helpers seemed surprised ; 
two parties of travelers to stop at the Bur- 
gundian King in one evening was an unusual 
thing, indeed. In a short time the arriving 
horsemen had dismounted, been bidden wel- 
come, and came stamping into the supper 
room. The night was cold and had turned to 
snow. The men wore heavy cloaks wound 
about them and fur caps pulled low over their 
eyes ; they crossed to a side of the room which 
was not swept by the door of the inner room, 
and here removed their mufflings. 

A cold night, landlord,” said one of them, 
in perfect French. 

It is, indeed, monsieur,” answered the host 
of the Burgundian King. And it is grow- 
ing colder.” 

We’d like supper and beds,” said the guest. 

Yes, monsieur, with great pleasure. We 
are rather crowded to-night, but the King can 
accommodate you, I’m sure.” 

Supper was provided for the newcomers, and 
they ate it with much low grumbling. 


90 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“ O’Moore would be pleased to hear that,” 
smiled Ethan. 

“ No doubt,” answered the captain. “ But 
listen.” . 

He held up one warning finger and bent 
forward so that he might be able to hear the 
better. The conversation between those in 
the other room was very low ; but Ethan 
fancied that now and then he detected an 
English expression. 

“ Why,” whispered he, “ they seem to be 
talking English.” 

That is what I thought,” said the captain. 
“ Can you make out what they are saying? ” 

Ethan listened for a moment, then shook 
his head. 

“ No,” said he. “ But oddly enough I 
imagine that I recognize familiar voices 
among them. There, do you hear that one 
rather lighter than the rest ? It sounds to me 
something like the voice of a boy whom I 
knew in Philadelphia. His name was Whee- 
lock, and his family were Tories.” 

John Paul Jones appeared to be greatly in- 
terested. 

“ I had fancied the same thing myself,” ad- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 91 

mitted he. “ There is one voice among them 
that Vve thought sounded strangely like — 
whom do you think ? 

Ethan leaned over and grasped his arm 
tightly. 

“ Not Blake ! whispered he. 

The captain of the Ranger nodded. 

“ Yes, Blake,” he answered. Then you 
too, have thought the same I It must be he.” 

“ I’ll see in a moment,” and the boy started 
to his feet. 

'' Sit down,” said John Paul Jones. “ Be- 
fore we betray our presence here let us con- 
sider what it might mean.” 

“ You are right, sir.” Ethan took his seat 
once more, and waited for the other to go 
on. 

I think we spoke of a directing mind that 
Siki would probably meet in France— the 
plotter that commanded him to enlist on the 
Ranger and endeavor to steal the secret dis- 
patch. 

‘‘ We did.” 

I think that the Lascar and his master 
have met, and that they have not yet given 
up hope of succeeding.” 


92 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Just then a voice from the supper room spoke 
out sharp and full. 

Siki did well, Blake. And if you had 
given him any aid my plans would have car- 
ried.” 

“ You see,” whispered John Paul Jones, 

I am right. Siki is there, and that was the 
voice of the master.” 

Blake was heard to grumble out some reply ; 
but the other man silenced him instantly. 

That will do,” said he. Excuses will not 
answer at this stage of the proceedings. To 
put yourself back in my good graces you must 
do more than invent reasons why you failed 
in your part of the plan. Rather than re- 
main and guard the way against the surprise 
which came, you went ashore, and so ruined 
all.” 

Oh, very well,” grumbled Blake, “ put it 
all on me, if you will.” 

“You are the one to bear the blame, and 
bear it you shall. Unless you do something 
that will lead to our securing this secret pa- 
per, you shall not receive a shilling of that 
which I promised you.” 

“ A bargain’s a bargain,” said Blake. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 93 

And good faith is good faith/’ said the 
other man. 

^‘You are right, Danvers,” said a boy’s 
voice. 

You keep still, you pup,” growled Blake. 

I don’t see what good you are in this, any- 
way.” 

** It was my father that found out about the 
paper and sent for Danvers to come to Phila- 
delphia so that he might be able to get his 
hands on it. Isn’t that so, Danvers ? ” 

Yes,” replied Danvers. The information 
given me was correct, and if the paper is found 
you get your full share of the reward.” 

** I’ve done all I could to make up for any 
little lapses which I might have made,” 
whined Blake. Only for me you wouldn’t 
have known that Captain Jones came this 
way.” 

Ethan felt a strong pressure upon his arm, 
and turning found the commander of the 
Ranger staring into his face from under 
frowning brows. 

They have followed us,” said he. And 
they intend to stop at nothing that will bring 
them success.” 


94 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

They realize the value of the papers, or 
this man Danvers does, at least ; and there is 
a reward offered, it seems, for their delivery to 
the proper persons.’’ 

“ This boy who just now spoke,” said 
Captain Jones, “ you said you knew him, 
did you not ? and that he was of a ^Tory 
family?” 

Yes ; his name is Wheelock.” 

There must be a leak somewhere, when a 
Tory could get wind of so secret a document 
in time to place himself in communication 
with an emissary of the crown. But as mat- 
ters stand there is only one thing to do ; if we 
cannot avoid them, we must fight them ! The 
papers must reach the hands of Mr. Franklin 
without accident.” 

As he spoke the commander of the Ranger 
drew his sword around so that it would be 
nearer his hand and looked to the priming of 
the pistol which he carried in his belt. Ethan 
did likewise, and then they sat silently before 
the fire, listening, and waiting for whatever 
might happen. The voices of those in the 
supper-room sank lower for a time and the 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 95 

two could not make out what was being said. 
At length, however, Blake cried : 

I tell you they can^t be very far ahead. 
If this snow had not come up we would have 
overtaken them/’ 

Perhaps,” suggested Stephen Wheelock, 
“ they might even have stopped here to- 
night.” 

Silence followed this — a silence that showed 
the interest which the remark caused among 
the newcomers. 

Landlord,” called Danvers, at last. 

Yes, monsieur,” quickly responded that 
individual, crossing the room. 

** Have you seen anything of any travelers 
to-night ? ” 

Only the gentlemen who stopped here, 
monsieurs.” 

Stopped here ! Ah ! ” 

Captain Jones and Ethan Carlyle heard a 
sudden drawing back of stools and a chorus of 
sharp, breathless exclamations. 

So,” continued Danvers, in a slightly 
lower tone, “ some travelers stopped here to- 
night, did they ? ” 


96 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

They did, monsieur, very fine gentlemen 
indeed. They honored my poor house by 
breaking bread in it, and eating of my ex- 
cellent potato soup.” 

And when did they leave ? ” 

Leave, monsieur ! They have not left. 
There are two of the gentlemen in the very 
next room.” 

There was a sound as though a single 
person had arisen ; then footsteps slowly 
crossed the floor, and in a moment a tall, fine 
looking man with black hair, and a face of 
remarkable paleness, stood in the doorway and 
regarded the two occupants of the smaller 
room fixedly. There was a calm insolence in 
his air that was peculiarly exasperating, and 
Captain Paul Jones rapped out in a peppery 
tone, 

I trust, sir, that this inspection is afford- 
ing you as much satisfaction as it is us dis- 
comfort.” 

‘‘ Your name, sir,” demanded the man with 
great coolness. 

“ My name is my own,” returned John 
Paul Jones, and I don’t choose to give it to 
every fellow that asks it in a public house.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


97 


The man turned and beckoned ; in a 
moment the burly form of Blake was at his 
side. 

Is this the captain and the boy of whom 
you spoke ? ” asked he. 

“ Yes, it is, Mr. Danvers,’' replied Blake, 
scowling blackly, to hide his embarrassment. 
He did not like the look in his captain’s 
eye. 

“ So, sir,” cried the latter, “ I find you here, 
do I ? Your leave ashore was for fifteen hours 
only.” 

“ My leave ashore is for good, as far as 
your old barkee goes,” growled the Canadian 
sailor. 

You have deserted, then ? ” inquired the 
officer, regarding him intently. 

Call it what you like,” said Blake. “ It 
all comes to the same thing.” 

Here Danvers signed for the seaman to go 
back into the supper room ; when the man 
had done so the emissary of the British gov- 
ernment advanced calmly to the fire. 

I would scarcely style Blake’s little es- 
capade desertion,” spoke he, easily, as he held 
his white, strong-looking hands over the blaze. 


98 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

You see, he entered on the books of your ship 
at my request. It was only intended that he 
should sail with you to Nantes.” 

I am quite aware of that,” answered John 
Paul Jones, leaning back in his chair and 
clasping his hands behind his head. 

The Englishman seemed surprised. 

‘‘ Indeed ! ” said he. 

“ I am also aware that the Lascar, Siki, was 
in your pay.” 

“ You are a person of considerable penetra- 
tion,” said Danvers, bowing politely. 

Not at all. It requires no keenness of wit 
to overhear a noisy conversation at an inn. 
I should have credited the government of 
Lord North with more circumspection in the 
choice of an agent, really.” 

The pallor of Danvers disappeared before a 
sudden flush of resentment ; then he laughed. 

‘‘ A rather good hit,” commented he, with 
his white teeth showing. I fancied that you 
might have overheard what was said, when I 
learned that you were here.” 

Captain Jones crossed his legs and tapped 
the toe of his boot with his brass-tipped scab- 
bard. 



** J^EEP THEM A T SWORD'S LENGTH," 
SAID CAPTAIN JONES 



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WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 99 

You were in quest of a certain document, 
were you not ? ” asked he. 

“ I was,'^ admitted Danvers. “ And to be 
perfectly candid in the matter and avoid mis- 
takes, I am so still.'' 

Is there any possibility, do you think, of 
your securing possession of it? " 

This question was asked in a calm matter- 
of-fact tone that made Ethan open his eyes. 
But Danvers heard it with a self-possession 
that was perfect. 

Oh, yes," he replied, “ there are only two 
of you " 

Three," corrected Captain Jones. 

And there are four of us," continued Dan- 
vers. Then he made as though to seat him- 
self in a vacant chair by the fire ; but Ethan 
toppled it over with his foot, and the man 
stood glaring at him angrily. 

“ I think," said the young American, 
quietly, that you had better stand." 

Ah ! You are the fighting lad who made 
such sad work of Blake, I take it." Danvers 
favored the boy with an unpleasant smile. 

Well, perhaps you may have an opportunity 
of using your talent before long." 

LOFC. 


loo WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


Then he turned to Captain Jones, and de- 
manded : 

“ Will you give up the document, peace- 
ably ? ” 

The papers are for Dr. Franklin,” answered 
the commander of the Ranger, and not for a 
British spy ! ” 

Danvers whipped out the sword that he 
carried and shouted : 

Blake ! Siki ! Wheelock ! This way ! ” 

In response to this call the three persons 
named darted into the room ; Ethan and 
the captain leaped up and their blades flashed 
in the lamplight, while the chairs in which 
they had been seated went crashing to the floor 
upon the far side. The landlord and his serv- 
ants also pressed into the room ; it was plain 
that strife was no new thing within the walls 
of the Burgundian King, for each of them 
had a stout cudgel, and only seemed to hesitate 
as to which party they should side with. Dan- 
vers saw this at a glance and cried. 

Landlord, a dozen Louis d^or if you give 
me your help against these robbers.” 

It is done, monsieur,” answered the land- 
lord promptly. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES loi 


Keep them at sword’s length,” said Cap- 
tain Jones, in a low voice. 

“ Right, sir,” answered Ethan. 

The next instant four swords and a few stout 
clubs were raining cuts, thrusts and blows 
upon them. At the first onset Ethan spitted 
Blake through the fleshy part of the neck ; 
the man writhed for a moment, then fell back 
out of reach howling and endeavoring to stanch 
the flow of blood. Two of the inn people were 
badly slashed by Captain Jones, and now he 
was engaging the Lascar, who was armed with 
a murderous looking knife, Wheelock and the 
landlord. Danvers and the rest of the inn 
people had fixed their attention upon Ethan, 
and the boy was playing them desperately. 

The spy was a finished swordsman and had 
a wrist like steel ; his thrusts were rapid and 
his defense superb. The smashing blows of 
the clubs took most of the young American’s 
attention, and each lunge of Danvers became 
more dangerous. 

It was very soon evident that the situation 
was impossible ; nine against two were hope- 
less odds, and the captain of the Ranger and 
his young friend were gradually driven back 


102 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


before the weapons of their adversaries. Their 
backs were against the wall ; desperation was 
written deep upon their faces, and every ray 
of hope had gone from their hearts, when the 
outer door was flung open with a resounding 
crash, feet were heard bounding across the 
floor of the other room, and in another instant 
Longsword had flung himself into the fray 
with a wild Irish yell ! 

Like a wheel of flame his huge blade swept 
about him ; the Lascar and one of the stable 
louts went down like ninepins ; Danvers 
reeled out of the fight with a thrust through 
the shoulder. And with that the others 
threw down their weapons and fled. 

Breathless, Captain John Paul Jones and 
Ethan Carlyle leaned upon their swords ; 
Longsword with his point in one hand and 
hilt in the other glared grimly about him. 
Danvers, his hand pressed to his bleeding 
shoulder and his face paler then ever, spoke 
first. 

I suppose,’’ said he, in a cold, even voice, 
“ that we are your prisoners.” 

If this were the United States, or the 
deck of my ship, you would be, assuredly,” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 103 

answered Captain Jones. “ As it is, the worst 
that I could do would be to bring a charge of 
assault against you before a French magis- 
trate. So, rather than that, I shall let you 
go free. I give you and your people five 
minutes in which to take yourselves off.” 

Neither Blake nor Siki was badly hurt, 
and young Wheelock was uninjured. The 
latter helped the others out, and their horses 
were saddled ; well within the time allowed, 
they were on their way down the snowy road, 
while John Paul Jones, Ethan and the Irish 
dragoon stood in the door of the Burgundian 
King and watched the darkness swallow 
them up. 


CHAPTER VIII 


SHOWS HOW BENJAMIN FRANKLIN OPENED THE 
SECRET DISPATCH 

Upon reaching Paris the three immediately 
sought out lodgings and removed the grime 
of the road. Then the commander and Ethan 
went to call upon Dr. Franklin and present 
their dispatches. 

The rooms of the famous philosopher, sage 
and statesman were modestly furnished, but 
were crowded by a most brilliantly attired 
company. No representative of a foreign gov- 
ernment at the Court of France had ever 
created such a marked impression as this 
American commissioner. The imaginative 
French saw in him one of the sages of ancient 
Greece reincarnated. His advanced age, his 
natural dignity, his virtues, his undoubted 
wisdom made him a man of mark. The 
courtiers of King Louis admired and re- 
spected him, and it was seldom, indeed, that 
a group of influential persons and young 
soldiers were not to be found in his rooms. 

104 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 105 

He received Captain Jones and Ethan with 
great heartiness, for he was ever eager for 
news. 

My dear sir,’’ said he, holding the officer’s 
hand tight clasped within his own, “ I am 
most happy to meet you. Your exploits 
upon the sea have long been known to us 
here in France, and if every American ship 
had a commander like you, we’d have the 
enemy suing for peace within a twelve- 
month.” 

John Paul Jones flushed with pleasure. It 
is noted of him that he ever loved to be 
praised, and praise from such a man as 
Franklin was praise, indeed. 

The sage had not at the beginning of the 
war with England, given much thought to 
the sea as a place to meet the foe in the 
struggle for liberty; being a landsman this 
was, perhaps, natural. But upon his voyage 
to France in the Reprisal, Captain Lambert 
Wickes, his eyes had been opened to the 
possibilities of what might be done upon deep 
water. This was the first American war 
vessel to cross the Atlantic, and two rich 
prizes were captured under the philosopher’s 


io6 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


eyes. When these were sold at a French 
port and the proceeds added to his slender 
means his admiration knew no bounds. He 
saw at once how the enemy might be so 
weakened by a few swift cruisers in the Ger- 
man ocean as to cripple them permanently ; 
and the dispatching of the Lexington and the 
other brave little vessels which carried the 
war under the very shadow of the English 
cliffs was made according to his suggestion. 

It had somehow become noised abroad that 
the daring and successful American sailor 
Paul Jones was to call upon Mr. Franklin 
that morning, and the throng present were 
most anxious to see and lionize him. They 
knew too, that he must bring tidings as to 
the progress of the war. 

Count de Vergennes, minister of foreign 
affairs, was present, and his interest was most 
marked ; upon being introduced to Captain 
Jones he at once plunged into the subject of 
the American conflict. 

“You and your countrymen have done ex- 
cellently upon the sea,'’ admitted the count, 
“ but upon the land you have not been so 
successful." 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 107 

‘‘ General Washington is still in the field. 
He will never surrender. 

“ That may be true. But he is retreating, 
retreating — ever retreating. This does not 
win battles. The British are apparently tri- 
umphant upon every hand. Your army has 
been driven from Canada ; you have evacu- 
ated Long Island ; New York is in the hands 
of your country’s foes ; and it is rumored that 
the American soldier is throwing down his 
arms and taking advantage of the pardon 
which General Howe offered all who would 
return.” 

As he stood at a window some little dis- 
tance from the group about the commander 
of the Ranger and the French minister, Ethan 
noted the eager interest of all. He also saw 
that Dr. Franklin had opened the letters which 
had been handed him but still held the secret 
packet with its seals unbroken ; he smiled 
over the letters as one smiles who is highly 
pleased. 

As the minister continued in the same strain 
for some time, it dawned upon Ethan that the 
news of Gates’ victory had not yet reached 
him, and with a thrill he realized that there 


io8 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


was a surprise in store for those present. At 
length Dr. Franklin lifted his venerable head 
and said, with a quiet smile : 

“ But, my dear count, you have not yet 
heard of the affair of Burgoyne.’’ 

The minister of foreign affairs laughed. 

“ You must not think us so far behind the 
times, monsieur,” he said. Burgoyne com- 
pelled the Americans to retreat from Ticon- 
deroga some time ago. And he followed this 
up by severely defeating them at a place called 
Hubbard ton. This news reached us promptly 
and through a channel which we never ques- 
tion.” 

“ My news,” and Franklin fluttered his 
letters triumphantly, “ is very much later 
than yours, it would seem. Burgoyne un- 
doubtedly accomplished what you claim. But 
it is the result of his subsequent operations of 
which I speak.” 

“ You have news, monsieur? ” The face of 
the Count de Vergennes shone with satisfac- 
tion ; this . gentleman was ever a friend to 
America, and was always hungry for news of 
American success. 

** Burgoyne’s troubles began with his ad- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 109 

vance upon Fort Edward. A thousand Ger- 
man mercenaries were killed and captured to 
begin with. Then he crossed the Hudson in 
force to turn the American position at Bemis 
Heights ; but Arnold met him with desperate 
courage and held him back.” 

A murmur of admiration went up from the 
Frenchmen present. 

‘‘ A brilliant officer, this General Arnold,” 
commented the count. 

“ Burgoyne's communications with Lake 
Champlain were then cut by a dashing enter- 
prise of my countrymen ; forced by the hunger 
of his men, the British general risked another 
battle,” proceeded Dr. Franklin, ‘‘ and met 
with a crushing defeat.” 

Another murmur went up ; eyes sparkled 
with pleasure ; hands applauded softly. 

But,” argued the Count de Vergennes, ‘‘ the 
tables might be turned once more. Burgoyne 
may still conquer.” 

Franklin smiled serenely. 

That is impossible,” said he. 

An hour ago I would have said as much 
for Arnold’s chances of victory,” said the 
count. 


no WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


I said that Burgoyne’s chance of ultimate 
victory was impossible, because after his de- 
feat he retreated upon Saratoga. Finding 
himself surrounded he surrendered his entire 
force to General Gates.” 

A cry of delight went up ; the Americans 
were congratulated heartily. 

‘‘ It was such news as this that we have 
been waiting for,” whispered the minister of 
foreign affairs to the aged commissioner. 
“ From now on things will take a turn ; suc- 
cess will await your negotiations now, where 
only delay and disappointment met you in 
the past.” 

When all had gone save Captain Jones and 
Ethan Carlyle, Dr. Franklin said : 

You will pardon me, I’m sure. These 
letters spoke of a document of much impor- 
tance as being in this packet.” 

He broke the great red seals and tore off 
the covering ; then, as they watched him, 
they saw his face take on a bewildered look. 

'‘What is it?” cried Captain Jones. 

" Strange,” said Dr. Franklin. " The entire 
page is blank save only for one word. Look.” 

He held out the sheet, and they found 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES in 


staring them in the face, scrawled in huge, 
sprawling letters, the name : 

Siki.’^ 

“ Robbed ! exclaimed John Paul Jones. 

“ He got the packet after all,^' cried Ethan, 
with a great leap at his heart. 

Explain your meaning,’^ said Dr. Frank- 
lin, still bewildered. “ I do not understand.” 

In as few words as possible the entire story 
of the attempt made to steal the papers was 
told him. He listened intently, and shook 
his head gloomily at the end. 

“ He was a cunning rascal, indeed, that Las- 
car,” said he. He took the packet and sub- 
stituted another resembling it in order to de- 
lay the alarm long enough to permit him to 
get safe away.” 

But,” cried Paul Jones, how could he 
know anything about the appearance of the 
packet? ” 

You forget our young friend^s statement 
that the Lascar saw it lying upon the table be- 
tween him and Mr. Hancock. For a fellow as 
keen as he it only required a glance and he 
carried away a picture of it in his mind.” 

The attack at the inn is more than I can 


112 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


understand,” said Ethan. “ If they already 
had the dispatch why should they set upon us 
after demanding it? The matter has a queer 
look.” 

‘‘ Most queer,” agreed the sage, wrinkling 
his brows. And, to me, there seems to be 
only one explanation : The Lascar stole the 
dispatch and kept the fact hidden from his em- 
ployer and comrades. He had come to under- 
stand that it was a very valuable thing and 
made up his mind that the profit to come from 
it was to be all his own.” 

‘‘ Bravo,” cried John Paul Jones. That 
must be it — and that fact holds out a 
promise.” 

“ Of what nature? ” 

“ We may recover the dispatch ! The Las- 
car will be forced to sound every step of his 
way toward the disposal of the paper. He 
may know that it is valuable but he will not 
know to whom.” 

“ A good thought,” said Mr. Franklin. 

As long as it does not reach the British min- 
isters, who alone would understand it, the pa- 
per can do no harm.” 

It shall not reach them,” cried Ethan. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 113 

** I’ll hunt this man, Siki, all over Europe but 
what I’ll have the dispatch from him ! ” 

And Captain Jones reached forward and 
clasped him by the hand. 


CHAPTER IX 


HOW ETHAN AND LONGSWORD MET A MAN 
NAMED FOCHARD 

Captain Jones did not propose to leave 
Paris for a few days, and this gave Ethan an 
idea. 

When Danvers and Siki and the rest of 
them rode away from the Burgundian King 
the other night they came in the direction of 
Paris. I think that it would be as well were 
Shamus and myself to look about in the dis- 
tricts most frequented by sailors ; we might 
come upon the Lascar, somewhere.’^ 

As the commander of the Ranger approved 
of this, the two set out that afternoon. 

We’ll take our blades wid us,” said the 
Irish dragoon ; “ the civil authorities of Paris 
don’t look out for things very well, so I’ve 
heard. Master Ethan, and as there are lots of 
cut-purses in all big cities we’d as well be on 
the safe side.” 

Paris of pre-revolutionary days was vastly 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 115 

different from the present city. Its poor, like 
those of the country places, were poor indeed, 
while its rich were magnificently superior in 
manner and most splendid in dress. Squalor 
and grandeur were to be seen on every hand ; 
the noisome dens of the Faubourg San An- 
toine, which less than a score of years after- 
ward were to hurl their hordes of red-capped, 
blood-hungry maniacs into the vortex of the 
“ Terror,’’ and the beautiful structures of the 
rich were not far separated. Ethan and Long- 
sword, as they walked about, wondered how 
such a state of things could exist among a 
people apparently so highly schooled in all 
the refinements of civilization. 

Evening drew on and still they were afoot ; 
both began to grow somewhat hungry. 

“ I think,” said Ethan, “ that we had bet- 
ter be getting back to our lodgings.” 

“ I’ve been thinking that same for some 
time,” said Longsword. A rasher of bacon 
and eggs, as that landlady cooks them, would 
be mighty comforting, so it would.” 

They proceeded along for some time ; then 
their progress became a hesitating sort of thing, 
and at last they stopped. 


ii6 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


“ Shamus,” asked Ethan, a laugh in his 
voice, “ where do we live ? ” 

‘‘ Faith, then. Master Ethan, I don’t know. 
Ye see I have no French, and these bla’guard 
names that they give these streets get the bet- 
ter of me.” 

Then,” said Ethan, we are lost.” 

“ But we can ask some one the way.” 

“We could if we knew what street to ask 
for — but we don’t.” 

Longsword pulled a long face, and pon- 
dered. 

“ Sorra the taste of supper will we get to- 
night,” mourned he. 

“ Did the street sound anything to you like 
Rue Constantine?” asked Ethan, after a 
pause. 

“ It did,” answered Shamus eagerly. “ It 
is very much like it, faith ! ” 

“ Then we’ll try for that.” 

A shopman was appealed to and he directed 
them with much earnestness. 

“ You will not take the next turn, nor the 
next,” he explained in rapid French. “ But 
the next after that you will take, for that is 
the Rue Constantine. It runs but the one 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 117 

direction from here, so if you walk along it 
and look carefully you cannot miss your house, 
monsieurs.” 

They thanked the man and made their 
way in the direction indicated. When they 
turned into the Rue Constantine, Longsword 
said : 

“ Here it is, sure enough. I remember us 
passing that great building over there some 
time since. Faix, and it’d be a queer thing 
entirely if we hadn’t found our way back, so 
it would.” 

But Ethan seemed rather doubtful. Gazing 
about, he said : 

“ Don’t be quite so sure about your big 
building, Shamus. We’ve passed quite a num- 
ber of them in the last few hours.” 

“ Ah, but we are right anyway. Master 
Ethan, as you’ll find. A half hour will see 
us doing justice to that good French woman’s 
fine cooking.” 

They strode along for more than a half 
hour ; at length Ethan saw that doubt was 
shaking the confidence of Longsword. He 
laughed gleefully. 

Well, we may yet stay in the streets sup- 


ii8 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


perless all night,” said he. “ Are you very 
hungry, Shamus?” 

“ Master Ethan,” said the trooper, this 
walk has given me an appetite such as I 
haven’t had since I were a bit of a gossoon at 
home in Tipperary.” 

This solemn assurance and the feeling 
manner with which it was delivered was too 
much for Ethan. He leaned against a pillar 
of a building which they were passing and 
shouted with mirth. 

“ You’ll kill me yet, you old death’s head,” 
cried he at length. “ But, go on, let’s see if we 
can’t make you happy by finding the house 
and the supper that you so long for.” 

Some distance farther along Shamus uttered 
an exclamation of delight. 

Here we are, sure,” said he. The brown 
building with the railings about it and the 
wide roof like a bird box.” 

“ There are many such houses in Paris,” said 
Ethan. And we’ve passed some of them 
within the last ten minutes.” 

‘‘ But none wid the window gardens at the 
second floor,” declared Longsword. Sure, 
the landlady’s wee bit of a daughter were tell- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 119 

ing me the names of all the flowers while ye 
and the captain were off to the commissioner’s 
this morning. Of course I couldn’t under- 
stand a word she said, but that made no 
differ at all, at all. Oh, yes, this is the 
house.” 

The window gardens settled it with Ethan, 
so they went up the high stone steps and beat 
a sharp rat-tat upon the big brass knocker. 

The Rue Constantine was dark ; there were 
few people abroad, as the night was cold and 
the frozen snow upon the walks made the 
footing treacherous. Lights gleamed from a 
few windows, the curtains of which had not 
been drawn ; now and then a vehicle would 
go rattling heavily by, crunching the ice under 
its wheels. The door opened and a bald old 
man with spectacles looked at them sharply 
from the threshold. 

''Where are you from?” he asked, in an 
odd sort of way. 

" The United States,” answered Ethan, 
wonderingly. 

The bald man stood aside and allowed them 
to enter ; then he closed the door and said 
rather angrily, 


120 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


You should have answered, America/^ 

Ethan and Longsword exchanged glances 
and smiled. They had not seen the old man 
before, and looked at him curiously. Of 
course, the Irishman did not understand what 
he said, but his shining pall and his jerky 
way of looking over the rims of his big 
spectacles was sufficient for Longsword ; he 
nodded and smiled to the old man, in great 
good humor. 

Is the captain at home, do you know ? ” 
asked Ethan. 

The bald man cackled shrilly. 

“ The captain,” said he. So you call him 
that, do you ? ” 

** Of course.” 

Ah ! Very good. And a splendid cap- 
tain he is, I think.” 

As he spoke the old man opened a door 
disclosing a very well-appointed room lighted 
by a number of wax candles. 

Will you step in ? ” he asked. “ The cap- 
tain said that you were to wait for him here.” 

The two stepped wonderingly into the room. 
The old man followed them just beyond the 
doorway, and then paused. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 12 


He is within there/’ spoke he, with a 
nod of the head toward a door that com- 
municated, apparently, with another room. 

He is engaged with the person whom you 
have been in search of.” 

Not Siki,” exclaimed Ethan. 

We are to mention no names, if you 
please,” warned the old man, looking over 
the horn rims of his glasses, and wagging his 
head in strong disapproval. 

While Ethan was yet gazing at him in 
astonishment, he nodded and disappeared, 
closing the door behind him. 

“ What a queer looking old codger,” said 
the Irish trooper. What talk had he? ” 
Ethan translated the words of the man and 
Longsword opened his eyes in wonder. 

Is it possible that Captain Jones told this 
old fellow about the document and its loss,” 
cried he. Faith and it don’t seem likely, so 
it don’t.” 

Indeed it does not,” responded Ethan. 
“ And yet what else are we to understand by 
his words ? He knew that you and I were out 
in search of some one ; and he said that that 
some one was at present with the captain.” 


122 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


It has a queer look to me,” said Long- 
sword, scratching his head in a puzzled 
fashion. And do ye know. Master Ethan, 
the house seems to have a strange look, 
too ; faith it don’t seem the same at all, at 
all.” 

“ Nonsense,” laughed Ethan. “ Don’t let 
your imagination run riot, old fellow. You 
and I are not well enough acquainted with 
the house to know how it looks.” 

Just then there was the sound of a door 
opening and closing. Then they heard voices 
in the hall, as though some one had stepped 
out of the adjoining room. 

Yes,” said one of the voices, “ I under- 
stood that you were being sought for anx- 
iously all the afternoon.” 

‘‘ By whom? ” asked another voice. 

By Messieurs Danvers and Wheelock. 
They are in my reception room waiting for 
me at this moment.” 

“ Had you better not introduce me ; you 
know that I have not met them as yet.” 

No more have I. You’d better wait until 
I’ve settled this matter with them. Come to- 
morrow and I’ll be able to give you full in- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 123 

formation as to the price that will be paid if 
the dispatch is recovered.” 

Pm afraid it never will be. These Lascars 
are cunning dogs.” 

But Siki made the mistake of trying to 
dispose of the paper in Paris. That is how 
we found him out. No one would have 
suspected that he had it, but for that. And 
a man who makes a mistake once, may do so 
again.” 

You are right. Good-night, Monsieur 
Pochard. I will call upon you to-morrow as 
you request.” 

The door leading to the street opened, and 
the other voice returned. 

Good-night, monsieur. Have no fear. I 
think all will be well in the end.” 

The door then closed, and the man Pochard 
returned to the room adjoining. Ethan 
gripped Longsword^s arm in a clasp that made 
even that man of iron wince. 

** No matter what happens,” said he, ex- 
press no surprise. Act as though you con- 
sidered it all as a matter of course.” 

“ What is it ? ” queried Longsword, aston- 
ished at his young master's manner. 


124 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

We are in the wrong house. And we have 
stumbled upon a clue to the missing dis- 
patch.^' 

The door leading into the next room was 
now thrown open, and a stout, florid man in 
a velvet coat and with a great bunch of seals 
hanging from a heavy gold watch chain, 
stepped into the room. 

“ Gentlemen," said he, advancing and hold- 
ing out both hands, I am most delighted to 
meet you." 

When he had shaken hands with them he 
continued, addressing Longsword, 

“ You are Monsieur Danvers, I take it." 

‘‘ He does not speak French," Ethan in- 
formed the man. 

Fochard expressed his surprise with a shrug. 

Not speak French ! That is odd. How 
then did his government come to choose him 
for this work in France ? " 

You forget, monsieur," said Ethan coolly, 
‘‘ that his coming to France was by accident. 
The dispatch got this far because our plans 
miscarried. Danvers’ working ground is the 
United States, and a knowledge of the French 
language is not necessary there.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 125 

True, true,'' answered Pochard. I had 
forgotten that. Then Monsieur Wheelock, I 
well express myself through you, if you will 
be so kind, as I speak no English." 

“ I shall be pleased to do anything that I 
can to help the matter along." 

Pochard laughed and patted him upon the 
back. 

We shall all be pleased to do what we can 
in this matter," chuckled he. Ah, the dis- 
patch must indeed be an important one ! 
Ten thousand pounds in English gold ! 
Think of it. No wonder the rascally Lascar 
desired to secure it all for himself." 

While he was speaking Pochard led the 
way into the adjoining room and closing the 
door, bowed them into chairs with the utmost 
politeness. The apartment was much smaller 
than the one they had just left; the walls 
were lined with walnut cabinets, each num- 
bered and lettered ; a desk piled with papers 
stood beneath a huge, swinging lamp. 

“ I am most glad," said Monsieur Pochard, 
“ that this matter came to my notice while 
there was yet some chance of success." 

Ethan bowed, and repeated the man’s words 


126 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


ill English to Longsword. The latter seemed 
astonished and was about to ask some ques- 
tions, but a secret signal from Ethan stopped 
him. 

“ At first I thought,” said the Frenchman, 
‘‘ that the Lascar would try to sell the paper 
back to the Americans. And in this I was 
not very far wrong. He would have endeav- 
ored to do so had he not discovered that they 
could not afford to pay so much for it as the 
English.” 

“ How do you manage to find these things 
out?” asked Ethan curiously. 

Fochard laughed, clasped his plump white 
hands before him and twirled his thumbs. 

“ My agents are everywhere, even in King 
Louis’ bedchamber,” he replied. “ The system 
that I have built up is the result of years of 
labor. There is nothing of importance hap- 
pens in Paris that I do not know. When 
the loss of this American dispatch filtered 
through to me, I at once communicated with 
you and appointed this meeting.” 

It was most kind of you,” said Ethan 
after he had acquainted Longsword with the 
outline of what Fochard had said. He did 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 127 

this because he had a lurking suspicion 
that the man might not be so ignorant of 
English as he professed to be. “ But/^ the 
boy proceeded, “ has anything further been 
discovered ? ’’ 

There has been important information 
brought to me within the past hour ; in fact 
the agent who brought it was Garvace, and 
he left but a few moments ago. The Lascar 
once served the English Earl of Selkirk in 
some capacity and is, so it is understood, now 
on his way to some port where he can get a 
ship for England or Scotland and so place 
the papers in the EarPs hands for the crown. 

“ Do you know what port he is headed 
for?^^ 

No ; but like as not it is Brest or Nantes ; 
or perhaps L’Orient.'' 

He is wounded and may perhaps be de- 
layed upon that account,'’ said Ethan. 

Yes, that is true ; however, I have taken 
no chances with him, for he is a most cun- 
ning rascal. My agents are after him. Not 
a vessel will leave any French port until it 
has been searched for him in my secret way." 

** Can we do anything to assist you ? " 


128 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


Not in France, no. But we have learned 
that the Earl of Selkirk is most likely to be 
found at this time of the year at his place on 
St. Mary’s Isle. It is there Siki will make 
his way should he succeed in eluding us. My 
advice to you is to go there with your men, 
and wait for him.” 

“ Your advice,” said Ethan, who had been 
repeating all this to his companion, “ is good.” 

‘‘ That, then,” said Fochard, rising as a sign 
that the interview was at an end, is all that 
I can do for you, now. You will pardon me, 
I know ; but I have most important matters 
that claim my attention.” 

Then we will not detain you,” said Ethan. 

As he led them out of the room, and toward 
the street door, Fochard continued : 

“ The division of the reward is understood, 
then, to be as I desired. Half to me and half 
to Monsieur Danvers to be shared among our 
respective agents as we see fit.” 

“ Monsieur Danvers will be perfectly satis- 
fied with that arrangement, I have no doubt,” 
said Ethan. 

“Tell him to consider the matter and send 
me word by messenger before he leaves Paris. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 129 

I like these little matters settled at the begin- 
ning. And now, gentlemen, I will bid you 
good-night.” 

They then found themselves shaking hands 
with the secret agent upon his door-step ; a 
moment later the door had closed and they 
were standing upon the frozen walk, gazing 
at each other in astonishment. 


CHAPTER X 


THE CRUISE OF THE RANGER 

It was a good two hours later when Ethan 
and the Irish dragoon finally discovered their 
lodgings. Captain Jones was busy over some 
papers in his room when Ethan knocked upon 
his door. 

Come in/’ said the sailor. I had just 
about finished.” He sealed up some docu- 
ments, and then went on, “ Your search was 
longer than you intended, was it not? and, I 
suppose, without much success.” 

“ Our search resulted in nothing,” returned 
Ethan. “But by sheer luck we stumbled 
upon a most remarkable discovery.” 

Then he related the main incident of the 
night, and Captain Jones listened with the 
greatest attention. 

“ Quite remarkable,” commented he, as the 
lad finished. “ But, really, except for the fact 
that we now know where Siki expects to dis- 
pose of the paper, we learned all this from Dr, 
130 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 131 

Franklin’s judgment in the matter. St. Mary’s 
Isle, eh,” he continued, musingly. “ I know 
the place well ; and, who knows, perhaps I 
may touch there in the Ranger and look into 
this matter.” 

Not having had any definite instructions 
from Mr. Jefferson about when he should re- 
turn to America, Ethan had considered that 
he should remain in France until the paper 
was recovered or proven to be lost for good 
and all. He had had no notion of continuing 
the cruise with Captain Jones, but now that 
the Ranger and the recovery of the dispatch 
seemed linked, as it were, he eagerly asked to 
be allowed to go. 

The chances are,” he reasoned, that the 
Lascar will slip through their fingers. If you 
can land Longsword and me upon St. Mary’s 
Isle we may be in time to do some good.” 

I shall be most glad to have you,” said the 
Ranger’s captain. “ And somehow it seems 
to me that a landing at St. Mary’s Isle is going 
to lead to good of some sort. I sometimes get 
impressions like that, and they usually point 
pretty close to facts in the end.” 

Three or four days later John Paul Jones, 


132 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Ethan Carlyle and Longsword once more 
reached Nantes ; and the former immediately 
set about getting his ship ready for the voyage 
that was to strike terror to the hearts of the 
British and fill those of the struggling Ameri- 
cans with delight. 

Upon the trip across the Atlantic the pre- 
diction that the commander had made to 
Ethan in Portsmouth harbor had been realized. 
Many defects and weaknesses were discovered 
in the Ranger, and these he now set about 
remedying as far as possible. 

The ship’s trim was altered ; her ballast was 
taken out and restowed ; her masts were 
shortened, also, by some feet. No man ever 
sailed the ocean who knew more about the 
small details of seamanship than John Paul 
Jones ; after he had been in a vessel a few 
weeks it was an assured thing that she had 
come to do all that there was in her. Many a 
cranky, slow answering tub had been trans- 
formed, by his knowledge, into a speedy, 
amenable ship. 

After they had cleared the harbor the Ran- 
ger showed marked evidence of improvement 
in her work. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 133 

She’ll answer, now,” said her captain, with 
satisfaction. 

Off Cape Clear a British brig was captured 
and sent into Brest, as was the Lord Chatham, 
a ship out of London, which they took a little 
later. 

While heading up the Irish channel one 
day during the first dog-watch, Ethan and the 
commander were pacing the quarter-deck. 

“ Do you intend to head directly for St. 
Mary’s Isle ? ” asked the boy. 

“ No ; I had thought of a plan by which an 
attempt might be made upon Whitehaven. 
There is a great deal of shipping in the har- 
bor there I know ; and if it could be destroyed 
it would be a damaging blow.” 

You are quite familiar with that port, are 
you not? ” 

I sailed out of it upon my first voyage, and 
first saw the light of day not many miles from 
it. Let me once get into the harbor with a 
fire boat and I’ll forever put a stop to the burn- 
ings and ravagings that the British are so free 
with upon our undefended coast. A blaze 
that would sweep every hull from Whitehaven 
would show them that we have the power to 


134 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

retaliate ; and after that they would be more 
apt to hold their savagery in check. 

I think you are right/^ agreed Ethan. 
‘‘ There is nothing like a swift retaliation to 
teach a brutal and insolent enemy to be mer- 
ciful.’’ 

There was a strong wind blowing when the 
Ranger came in sight of Whitehaven and beat 
up toward it. The boats had been lowered, 
manned, and were about to be called away, 
when the wind suddenly shifted and blew on 
shore. The position of the American 'was now 
most dangerous, so the boats were promptly 
hoisted in once more and the Ranger beat out 
to sea. 

Off Carrickfergus they took a small fishing- 
boat. The skipper was a hot-tempered little 
Celt, and he made a great ado about the 
matter. 

“ Faith, then, captain,” said he to the smil- 
ing commander of the sloop-of-war, “ I think 
it’s a shame, so I do, that an honest man can’t 
cast his nests into the say for the bits of fish 
that do be swimming about, widout being 
dragged on board a Yankee that he don’t want 
to get acquainted wid.” 

/ 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 135 

‘‘ Well,” replied Captain Jones, “ we are not 
quite so discourteous. We desired your ac- 
quaintance and went to some little trouble to 
make it.” 

Sure, then,” snapped the other, if I car- 
ried the guns aboard of me that the Drake do, 
as she lies there in Belfast Lough, you would 
not be so ready to come near me, perhaps.” 

The Drake ? ” questioned Captain Jones, 
with interest. “ You mean, I suppose, the 
British ship-of-war of that name ? ” 

I do,” returned the fisherman. And she 
is a fine vessel, for she carries twenty guns and 
a hundred and fifty men.” 

The commander of the Ranger turned to his 
first officer, briskly. 

“ I think, Mr. Simpson,” said he, “ that 
well change our course for Belfast Lough 
and see what can be done with that vessel.” 

We are not out to engage war ships,” 
growled Simpson, sullenly. 

We are out to engage anything that 
promises to injure the enemy,” said the cap- 
tain sharply. ** You will please pass my order 
along.” 

The lieutenant did as requested. It is noted 


136 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

of this insubordinate officer that he seemed 
to regard the voyage of the Ranger more as an 
enterprise for private gain than anything else ; 
a rich merchantman pleased him greatly ; but 
he had little or no stomach for a fight with a 
vessel that carried any weight of metal. 

More sail was made upon the ship when she 
was brought into her new course ; in the 
mouth of the Lough she beat to and fro until 
night, then she ran into the harbor. 

The Drake lay well up in the harbor, and 
it was Captain Jones’ intention to lay the 
Ranger alongside her and board. 

“ When I give the word,” said he to the 
boatswain, who was in charge of a group of 
men on the forecastle deck, “ let go the bow 
anchors.” 

Cutlasses, boarding-pikes and pistols were 
distributed, and the crew stood ready. With 
a magnificent display of seamanship John Paul 
Jones brought the Ranger up and laid her 
athwart the Drake. 

Let go the anchor,” he commanded in a 
l6w voice. 

There was a scuffling and stumbling among 
the seamen in the bow ; the anchor-chain 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 137 

rattled, then stopped ; the American sloop-of- 
war drifted down past the lee quarter of the 
Englishman ; at this point the anchor fell 
with a loud plunge, and the Ranger lay 
directly under the broadside of the Drake. 

There was a stir among the watch upon the 
British ship’s deck. 

Ahoy, there, you blundering lubber I ” 
yelled a voice. What are you about?” 

‘‘No harm done,” answered Captain Jones, 
promptly. “ Anchor-chain fouled.” Then in 
a low tone he added : “ Cut that cable and let 
the anchor go.” 

Ethan Carlyle seized an axe from the rack, 
and with a deft, sure blow severed the thick 
line ; the Ranger drifted slowly out of her 
dangerous position ; as another attempt of the 
same sort could not be risked, sail was clapped 
upon her and she raced out of the Lough like 
a hunted hare. 

“ It’s a rare good thing she took us for a 
clumsy merchantman,” commented Ethan to 
Captain Jones, as they stood together upon 
the deck. “ She could have raked us from 
stem to stern as we lay there, and we could not 
have brought a single gun to bear on her.” 


138 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Fate seems to fight against us/’ laughed 
Captain Jones. “ Now for Whitehaven once 
more, and let us hope for a favorable wind.” 

They reached that port once more about 
eight in the evening upon the twenty-second 
of the month ; but the boats were not called 
away until after midnight. 

There were two of these, and were manned 
by crews of heavily armed volunteers. Ethan 
and Longsword had volunteered for the cap- 
tain’s boat. 

I will advance and attack the forts,” said 
the commander to Lieutenant Wallingford, 
who was in charge of the other boat. Your 
share in the enterprise is to get well in among 
the shipping and set fire to it.” 

These were all the instructions given. Day 
began to dawn as they reached the outer pier 
of the harbor. 

Take the north side,” directed Captain 
Jones, “ and pull hard.” 

Ay, ay, sir,” answered the third officer ; 
his boat drew away from the other and made 
into the harbor. 

There are the forts upon the south side, 
are they not ? ” asked Ethan. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 139 

“ Yes,” said John Paul Jones, and they are 
likely to be slimly manned. I know the cus- 
tom here, you see.” 

“ It reminds me of old times, faith,” 
whispered Longsword to Ethan, as he sat in 
the stern with his great brass-hilted blade be- 
tween his knees. 

Captain Jones was right ; the first fort was 
garrisoned by about a half dozen heavy eyed 
soldiers. Ethan, Longsword and a few of the 
more daring seamen scaled the wall and over- 
powered these without trouble. 

“ Into the guard house with them,” ordered 
Ethan, and fasten them in.” 

When the gate was thrown open and Jones 
and the remainder of the boat's crew entered, 
the former said briskly. 

Spike the guns ; we may have them roar- 
ing about our ears soon if we don't.” 

Longsword drove the plugs of iron into the 
vents of the cannon with swift and hearty 
blows. 

Now, Mr. Browne,” continued the captain, 
station a few men to guard the approaches 
from the town. Mr. Carlyle, come with me.” 

While Browne, middy, was stationing the 


140 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

men, Ethan hurried away with the captain to- 
ward the point where they had landed. 

“ That is Wallingford’s boat that I see ad- 
vancing,” said the commander, pointing to a 
craft slowly emerging from a wall of mist. 
“ And I see no indications from the harbor that 
he has carried out my orders.” 

As a matter of fact there was no blaze 
among the shipping and Ethan saw that the 
face of the commander was set and stern. 
Wallingford’s boat touched and the lieutenant 
sprang ashore. 

Well, sir,” rapped out the captain. 

My lights went out, sir, just as I was about 
to begin work, and so I could not carry out 
my orders.” 

This was long before the day of “ brimstone ” 
matches. The two boats carried lanterns in 
which were placed lighted candles, and to 
these most uncertain things they had to trust 
for the success or failure of a most brilliantly 
planned expedition. 

You will find lights in my boats there, I 
think,” said Captain Paul Jones. Take them 
and try once more ; there may yet be time.” 

His face was white with anger ; he had 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 141 

worked hard and dared much for success, and 
that such a trivial thing as this should threaten 
failure almost made him lose control of him- 
self. 

Ethan bounded toward the captain’s boat 
to get the lights ; but here, too, the candles 
had guttered out, and all that was left was a 
smear of tallow and the blackened end of a 
wick. 

Lights are out here, too,” he cried. Cap- 
tain Jones drew in his breath sharply. 

It seems that we are to have our share of 
misfortune indeed,” said he with a mirthless 
laugh. But lights must be had.” 

“ There is a house a little way below there,” 
volunteered Ethan. I saw it as we came 
along. It’s farther from the town than any 
other.” 

'' Tell Browne to give you a few men, and 
go there, then,” said the commander instantly. 

Knock and ask decently at first ; but if 
they refuse, or delay, beat down the door and 
help yourself.” 

Ethan was back at the fort in a few mo- 
ments’ sharp run. Longs word and a seaman 
named Freeman were given him and they 


142 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

started toward the house which Ethan had in 
mind. Now as it happened this Freeman was 
an Englishman and the very worst man in the 
Ranger to be selected for the work in hand. 

The house proved to be a small public inn, 
and the young American hammered upon the 
door loudly with the heavy butt of a pistol. 
As no answer came Longsword dealt the door 
a brace of lusty kicks that made the entire 
structure rattle. 

They seem to be sound sleepers,” said 
Freeman, who had remained very quiet up till 
then. ‘'Suppose I go around to the rear and 
see what can be done.” 

He did not wait for Ethan’s permission but 
at once disappeared around a corner of the 
building. A nervous tremble in the man’s 
voice caused the Irishman to instinctively sus- 
pect something. He also turned the corner a 
moment later, and saw Freeman speeding 
away towards the town. 

“ Master Ethan,” roared the dragoon. 
“ He’s off.” 

“ Whom do you mean ? ” 

“ The Englishman. There he goes, as fast 
as his legs can take him.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 143 

“ We^ll have the whole of Whitehaven here 
in short order now/’ said Ethan. ** He’s gone 
to give the alarm.” 

“ Not if I can stop him,” shouted the ex- 
trooper. He threw up his pistol with a quick, 
expert snap of the arm, and fired. Freeman 
half-halted, tottered a little, but continued on 
toward the town almost as fast as before. 

“ You got him,” said Ethan. 

“ But not enough, ” grumbled Longsword. 

It hardly cut the skin of him.” 

Try for him, once more, with this,” and 
Ethan offered Shamus his own pistol. The 
Irishman was a wonderful shot with these 
awkward weapons ; but the range caused him 
to shake his head. 

“ Too late,” said he. It’d take a musket 
to find a man at that distance.” 

The sound of the shot had the effect of arous- 
ing the house ; a window was thrown open 
above, a night-capped head was protruded, 
while a pair of sleep heavy eyes blinked 
down at them in the pale light of the dawn. 

Hello,” cried the owner of the night cap 
in a husky sort of bellow. What’s wanted 
below there ? ” 


144 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“ Arrah, come down wid ye and open the 
door/' requested Longsword with great 
promptness. 

“ And have myself killed for my trouble/' 
said the man at the window. 

Ye'll get yourself killed if you don't do 
as you're told, my friend," said Longsword with 
a reckless flourish of his empty pistol. The 
man withdrew his head with a jerk; and 
though they continued to call to him, he re- 
fused to show himself. 

Down with the door," cried Ethan at last. 
And putting their shoulders to it they sent it 
crashing inward. There now came a perfect 
storm of screams and yells from the regions 
above. 

They found themselves in a room in which 
a sea coal fire was burning ; after a short 
search Ethan found a couple of fat pine 
billets which he stuck partly into the fire. 
While they awaited such time as the torches 
should ignite, they stood in the broken door- 
way and looked earnestly toward the town. 
The noises from the rooms above had died 
away ; and now a long, low murmur as of 
many voices was carried to their ears by the 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 145 

wind, which was toward the harbor. With 
each moment the sound increased in volume ; 
it would rise sharply and then fall away, only 
to rise once more. 

The town is up, sure enough,” said Long- 
sword, grimly. Freeman has lost no time.” 

Once more the murmur of the distant 
voices rose and fell ; it had a fierce intensity 
that came awesomely to the listeners as they 
shivered in the chill of that spring morning. 
From far down the street a huddle of people 
swept around a corner ; in their hands they 
bore all sorts of hastily snatched weapons ; 
and by their gesticulations Ethan saw that 
they were wrought up to a pitch of frenzy. 

“ We have no time to waste,” said the 
young American, rapidly. In a few mo- 
ments more they will be here.” 

He ran into the room and snatched the 
torches from the coals ; the ends were 
smoldering only, but he swung them about 
his head a few times and they burst into a 
blaze. 

Now we are ready,” he cried. In a mo- 
ment they were out in the road. The shrill 
cries of the advancing townspeople sounded 


146 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

fiercer still ; the heavy tramp of their feet was 
swift and menacing. 

The}^ mean business, sure,” cried Long- 
sword. Look out ! ” 

Two or three bullets struck near them and 
the vengeful cries increased. From the win- 
dow of the inn the landlord was clamoring at 
the top of his lusty voice. 

Come on,” shouted Ethan to the Irishman 
as he darted down the road. Longsword 
followed close at his heels ; now and then he 
flourished his empty pistol and defied the 
crowd mutely. 

John Paul Jones was awaiting them 
eagerly. 

‘‘ Hah ! You have the lights. Good ! 
But what is that noise I hear? You have 
injured none of the folks at the house, I 
hope.” 

“ No,” answered Ethan. Freeman, the 
sailor whom we took with us, slipped into 
the town and aroused the people. They are 
coming in crowds.” 

A frown wrinkled the commander's brow. 

I had hoped that this would not happen, 
at least, until we had kindled a good blaze. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 147 

But we must do our best, as it is. Ahoy, 
there, into the brig, and put the torch to 
her.’^ 

There were a great number of vessels which 
had been taking in or discharging cargoes ; 
for the most part they lay close together, and 
a fire started in one would probably mean the 
destruction of all. 

The brig to which Paul Jones referred was 
one of the largest vessels at hand, and a great 
quantity of combustible matter had been 
scattered through her while Ethan had been 
securing the lights. Those set to apply the 
torch did not perform that duty quickly 
enough for the impatient commander ; so he 
sprang forward, snatched a blazing brand 
from one of them and leaped aboard the brig. 
Plunging below decks he applied the torch ; 
as he gained the deck once more he was fol- 
lowed by a thick cloud of smoke and a 
shower of sparks. 

The people of Whitehaven had, by this 
time, reached the entrance to the wharf, 
though the sight of a number of heavily- 
armed seamen halted them promptly. But 
with each passing moment their numbers in- 


148 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

creased, their shouts and execrations filled 
the air ; every now and then a flight of 
missiles would patter about the Americans. 
Then the fired brig burst into a fierce blaze ; 
from every port and seam smoke and flame 
jetted and curled ; and as no more was now 
to be done, Paul Jones shouted : 

“ To the boats, men. But take your time. 
Show any evidence of haste, and we’ll have 
all those people upon us.” 

The men obeyed. With Lieutenant Wall- 
ingford’s eye upon them, they climbed into 
the boats. Captain Jones, however, remained 
upon the pier. Ethan was about to follow 
the others when he noticed this. 

All hands in the boats, sir,” said he. 

“ Very well,” answered the other coolly. 

The fire in the brig had suddenly begun to 
die away, and he feared that it was about to 
go out. Ethan realized that this was the 
cause of hie delay. 

It needs more draught, I think,” said the 

boy. 

If the hatches were all off it would have 
more chance,” said the captain. 

Without a word Ethan sprang to the vessel’s 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 149 

rail and climbed aboard. As luck would have 
it an axe was at hand ; and in a moment his 
sturdy blows were ringing and crashing in 
the ears of the mob. This latter had con- 
stantly grown larger ; from every direction 
the people were hastening to the scene. When 
the throng realized what the axe blows meant, 
a wild howl went up from them. 

“ Down with the Yankee pirate,'^ came the 
cry. 

They are burning the ship ! shrilled a 
newcomer. 

Look,’' shouted another ; “ there is onl}^ 
one man. Shall five hundred loyal subjects 
of the king be braved by one American cut- 
throat ? ” 

“ Never ! ” roared the mob. 

Like a fury Ethan hacked and hewed at 
the hatches until he had them all cut away ; 
he was delivering the finishing strokes when 
the press from the rear of the crowd became 
so great that those in front were hurled for- 
ward. 

Back ! ” cried the intrepid John Paul 
Jones, presenting his heavy pistols in their 
faces. “ Keep back ! ” 


150 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

This ready action and the coolness of the 
man filled the angry mob with fear. With 
cries of alarm they fied back to their former 
positions at the head of the pier. The brig 
was now wrapped in a solid sheet of fiame ; 
and as there was nothing that demanded the 
further detaining of the Ranger’s boats, the 
captain sprang into one of them, followed by 
Ethan, and they pushed off*. 

Immediately the crowd surged down the 
pier ; some sprang to fight the fiames ; others 
stood at the harbor’s edge and shrieked their 
threats of vengeance ; but the tars in the 
rapidly-receding boats only answered by a de- 
risive laugh. Some one released the guard 
at the fort ; the hastily-driven spikes were 
wrenched from one or two of the guns ; and 
they were loaded and trained upon the boats. 

But by the time their sullen reports broke 
upon the morning air the Americans were 
out of range ; and in a very little while later 
the dashing sloop-of-war, under a press of 
white canvas, had disappeared beyond the 
vision of those upon the shore. 


CHAPTER XI 


ON ST. MARY^S ISLE 

Expresses dashed about and signal fires 
burned along the coast from one end of Eng- 
land to the other. Fear fell upon the folk of 
every commercial port and fishing hamlet. 
Invasion had been the very last thing that 
the British had thought possible ; no enemy 
had set his foot upon their soil before in the 
memory of living man ; and now that the 
despised Americans had accomplished the 
feat, a wave of mingled fear and fury swept 
through the “ tight little isle.’’ 

The British had thought it very right and 
proper to burn and destroy along the Ameri- 
can coast ; they considered it a rather quick 
and effective method of suppressing the rebel- 
lious subjects of the king. 

But when the youthful republic sent this 
daring sailor, Paul Jones, across the sea and 
through him applied the torch to British 
property and in a British harbor, the thing 
seemed vastly different. Pirate was the mild- 
151 


152 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

est term they could find for the chief of the 
Ranger ; and indeed so they affect to regard 
him to this day. 

Parliament was appealed to by the populace, 
and it was implored to have armed vessels sent 
out after the daring Yankee, and to scour the 
seas until he was either taken or sunk. 

News of all this reached John Paul Jones 
through vessels that he captured in the Irish 
Channel ; but he only laughed and glanced 
proudly about at his trim, swift, well-armed 
ship. 

‘‘ It is about time that our friend the Lascar 
was due at St. Mary^s Isle,’’ said he to Ethan, 
one evening as they sat in the cabin talking 
over the secret dispatch and its probable fate. 

I am thinking of heading for there and giv- 
ing you a chance to see.” 

“ Do,” said the lad eagerly. “ Think what 
the loss of this paper might mean to our 
country. We should use every means in our 
power to recover it ; and St. Mary’s Isle offers 
at least a possibility.” 

What you say is very true,” said the com- 
mander gravely. But I have still another 
reason for making this landing.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 153 

Indeed.” 

From time to time the people of the 
United States have heard of the dreadful 
treatment meted out to American prisoners of 
war in the British hulks and jails ; but in 
spite of the protests of Congress, nothing has 
been done by the English king to alter this 
state of affairs.” 

It is believed to be growing constantly 
worse.” 

The only hope of relief to our imprisoned 
countrymen,” said Paul Jones, “ lies in our 
ability to effect a system of exchange.” 

But this has been tried many times be- 
fore,” said Ethan. ‘‘ I copied the papers for 
Mr. Jefferson upon one occasion. But noth- 
ing ever came of it.” 

“ The reason of that is very clear. We 
have had no prominent captives. Let us 
once get a man of great name into our power 
and we can compel the beginning of such a 
system.” 

“ That seems very likely,” said the lad. 

“ Here is the Earl of Selkirk, one of Eng- 
land's most exalted personages. If we had 
him in our power it would not be many 


154 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

months before the treatment of American 
prisoners would change. And when we land 
upon St. Mary's Isle, the Lascar, Siki, will not 
be the only person sought ; if it is possible to 
do so, I shall leave there with the earl in this 
cabin a prisoner and hostage." 

Upon the beautiful headland at the mouth 
of the River Dee, the noble Earl of Selkirk 
had a magnificent seat. It was not long before 
the Ranger came in sight of this ; the news of 
what the commander had resolved to do 
had leaked out and the entire ship hummed 
with it. 

The sloop-of-war ran in close and the boat- 
swain's call rang through her. Two boats' 
crews, armed with cutlass and pistol, were 
called away, under the command of Captain 
Jones and Lieutenants Simpson and Hall. 
An old, white-haired man met them as the 
bows of the boats ran up upon the sand ; and 
he bowed low, hat in hand. 

Welcome, sir," said he, the tremble of age 
in his voice. “ The king's officers are always 
welcome. It has been many months since we 
have been favored by a visit from a ship of 
his Majesty's navy." 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 155 

The old man had the appearance of a 
steward or an upper servant of some sort ; the 
Ranger flew no flag and he mistook her for a 
king's ship. Captain Jones smiled kindly 
upon the old fellow. 

Thank you for your kind words/' said he. 
“ I only hope that the earl will be equally 
glad to see us." 

“ The earl, sir, would be pleased, I know. 
But, ah," and the ancient shook his white 
head sorrowfully, “ he has been called away." 

** Called away ! " The captain exchanged 
glances with Ethan and his officers, while 
the boats' crews muttered their disappoint- 
ment. 

“ Yes, sir," said the old servant. '' He has 
been a-gone for some time now. Do you 
know, sir," and he came nearer to John Paul 
Jones and lowered his voice, “ I can't abide 
these blackamoors." 

Ethan Carlyle started ; and the commander 
said quickly : 

What do you mean by that ? " 

I mean the man who haunted the grounds, 
sir, for days. He wanted to see the earl ; and 
when, at last, he did see him, the earl went 


156 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

away to London or some other place. No, sir, 
I don’t like these blackamoors.” 

Too late,” said Ethan Carlyle, with a great 
feeling of weight at his heart. 

“ It would seem that we are to be disap- 
pointed in both quests,” said the captain, in a 
low tone. The earl is gone and he has taken 
the paper with him. Perhaps it is even now 
in the hands of the British ministers.” 

Then he turned to Simpson and Hall. 
“ We may as well return to the ship. There 
seems to be nothing for us here.” 

There is the hall,” said Simpson, pointing 
toward the great white building whose top 
appeared above the trees. “ I have no doubt 
but what there is rich plunder there.” 

Hah ! ” ejaculated Paul Jones, staring into 
the lieutenant’s sullen face through his puck- 
ered eyelids. 

Simpson is right,” said Hall. “ We have 
taken this risk, and should not be asked to go 
back to the ship empty handed.” 

“ Who is it at the hall ? ” asked Jones of the 
old servant. 

Only the countess, sir,” replied the bewil- 
dered old man. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 157 

Do you hear?’’ and the Ranger’s com- 
mander wheeled upon his officers with stormy 
eyes. There is only a helpless woman then 
at the house. Are my ship’s company to turn 
buccaneers, indeed ? ” 

It is all very well for you to hold your 
high notions,” said Lieutenant Simpson with 
something like a sneer, “ but the officers of the 
Ranger sailed in her for profit. And as here 
is an excellent chance for booty, I am for 
seizing it.” 

** If you sail for glory. Captain Jones,” said 
Hall, “ very well. Patriotism is a very good 
thing ; but plunder is not so bad.” 

There was a murmur of assent from the 
boats’ crews ; the continued insubordination 
of these two officers during the voyage had 
spoiled the men of the Ranger ; there had been 
times when only the utmost firmness had pre- 
vented a mutiny. 

The cruise of the Ranger has not been as 
fortunate as we could wish,” remarked Simp- 
son, “ and now that this little chance for plun- 
der presents itself we have no desire to see it 
slip by.” 

“ Nor the crew either,” said Hall, meaningly. 


158 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

And the men shot frowning glances at their 
captain. 

The latter’s face was white with anger and 
his hand clutched the pistol in his belt. Ethan 
and Longsword stepped to his side with weap- 
ons ready in case of need ; the commander 
gave them a quick look of thanks. But a 
moment had served to change his mind. To 
shoot down Simpson and Hall would only 
bring on a bloody and unnecessary encounter, 
and the loss of the Ranger to the cause of 
freedom might result. So the captain’s hand 
dropped away from his pistol butt, and he said 
in an icy voice : 

You do this thing against my will. I want 
that understood ; and both of you will answer 
for it before a naval board.” 

If you are so very particular about the 
matter,” said Simpson, why, when the booty 
is appraised by the prize court, you can buy 
it in and return it to the noble earl if you so 
desire.” 

I thank you for the suggestion,” said the 
captain, coldly, and I will act upon it.” 

They stared at him in silence for a moment ; 
then Hall asked : 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 159 

‘‘ Have we then your permission to proceed, 
sir ? 

You have both announced your determi- 
nation to do as you like,’’ said Paul Jones, bit- 
terly, “ and I will raise no hand to prevent you 
carrying out your plans. But the responsi- 
bility shall be your own ; I will have no hand 
in the affair.” 

Without another word, the mutinous officers 
ordered the men to advance ; and away they 
went toward the hall, their side arms clanking 
and their sullen eyes avoiding the glance of 
their angry commander. 

History relates how they found the countess 
in the hall, and surrounded it ; how they de- 
manded the plate chest, and how it was given 
up to them by the lady almost without pro- 
test. Ethan and Longsword had followed the 
party, and with face scarlet with shame the 
former watched the seamen bear off the 
chest. 

It seems, Longsword,” said the lad, his 
eyes smoldering with rage, that we have 
turned thieves.” 

Yes, faith, and nasty, low-down thieves in 
the bargain,” agreed the Irish dragoon. 


i6o WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


Look at the captain,” said Ethan, point- 
ing to the slight figure of the Ranger’s young 
commander as he paced up and down beneath 
the trees, with bent head and hands clasped 
behind him. 

There was a set, hard look upon his face as 
he raised it, and saw the men returning with 
their plunder. But he said not a word, and 
at once proceeded to make ready for their re- 
turn to the Ranger. 

Ethan and Longsword were some distance 
behind the party ; the shame that they felt in 
this act of knavery would not permit them to 
mingle with the others ; and as they were 
passing a high and beautifully trimmed hedge, 
the first man clambered into one of the boats. 

Make haste,” said Longsword, we shall 
be left behind.” 

They broke into a trot ; but hardly had they 
taken a half dozen steps at the increased pace, 
when a score of men leaped over or burst 
through the hedge and fell upon them. Rough 
hands were clapped upon their mouths ; they 
struggled desperately, but were borne to the 
ground and pinned there by strong arms. It 
took some little time to accomplish this, and 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES i6i 


when at last they were overcome the Ranger^s 
boats were well upon their way, the men bend- 
ing strongly to their oars. 


CHAPTER XII 


IN WHICH DANVERS APPEARS ONCE MORE 

After their captors had them securely 
trussed up with strong ropes, they paid very 
little attention to Ethan or his companion. 
Something at sea seemed to interest them 
greatly, and, filled with curiosity, the two 
struggled to see what it could be. 

“ Look how the Ranger’s men are dragging 
at the sweeps,” said Ethan. 

“ They pull like mad,” agreed Longsword as 
he sat up in the sand in spite of his bonds. 

And look how the officers are urging them 
on ! ” 

Something has happened,” said the lad. 

Something will happen within the next 
half hour,” said one of the Englishmen who 
stood near. His Majesty’s frigate Thunderer 
is going to have a word to say in this matter 
pretty soon.” 

An English ship ! ” cried both captives. 

Ay, and a smart craft, too, with plenty of 

162 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 163 

guns and men. She's been lying further up 
behind the headland ; but we've sent word and 
she's coming down." 

As the man spoke there came the deep boom 
of a gun ; the Ranger, with her sails filled, 
went flying seaward ; from around the head- 
land swept the huge, dark hull and towering 
sail spread of a British ship of war, a column 
of white smoke arising from her bow. 

The Yankee are running away," cried a 
voice. “ They can rob defenceless people, but 
they won’t stand and fight.” 

“What’s the matter wid them?" growled 
Longsword as he watched the Ranger. “ Sure 
our ship can beat that fellow wid ease." 

“ And she's going to do it," cried Ethan. 
“ Look there. She only stood out for sea- 
room." 

Sure enough the American vessel now wore 
around and opened fire ; from that distance 
the puffs of smoke from her sides could be 
seen long before the reports were heard ; and 
when they did come, they were dull and sul- 
len and ominous. 

“ Hello," cried one of the men on the beach, 
“ that Yankee can shoot a bit.” 


i 64 with JOHN PAUL JONES 

At the first fire the Thunderer’s bowsprit 
hung limply, her foresails trailing in the sea ; 
a clutter of spars and a broken topmast hung 
over the deck, and the rent canvas flapped 
helplessly and wrapped itself about the masts 
and shrouds. 

The Ranger then stood in to take up a more 
effective position ; but the skipper of the Brit- 
ish frigate seemed to already have more than 
enough of the fight ; and making what sail he 
could he quickly scuttled back in the direc- 
tion from which he had come. The English- 
men were much wrought up over this defeat ; 
but Ethan and Longs word were well pleased. 

“ She came out like a conqueror,” said the 
lad, ‘‘ and she went back like a hen caught in a 
shower of rain.” 

“ You keep quiet,” growled one of the men. 
“ You’ll have all the trouble you can attend to 
in a few moments without making more for 
yourself.” 

“ I and my companion are to be treated as 
prisoners of war, I suppose,” said Ethan. 

You are to be treated just as this gentle- 
man sees fit,” answered the man. 

As he spoke, he pointed to a newcomer who 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 165 

came sauntering coolly along, his eyes turned 
seaward upon the Ranger, which was dressing 
her yards and about to put to sea. 

Danvers ! ^'exclaimed Ethan, instantly rec- 
ognizing the jetty hair and the remarkable 
pallor. 

The man turned and darted a swift, search- 
ing look at the boy as the cry reached his ears. 
Then his face lighted up in triumph and he 
laughed in a short, sharp way that bespoke 
malicious satisfaction. 

“ So, it is you, my young friend, is it ? he 
cried, advancing toward them. “ I had heard 
that my men had made a capture, but had no 
idea that it was any one but a brace of sea- 
men.'^ He stood looking down at them, a 
smile showing his white, even teeth, and one 
hand tapping the hilt of his sword. “ So,^^ he 
went on after a pause, you have joined with 
the Lascar, have you ? 

Joined with him,"' repeated Ethan in sur- 
prise. 

Ay, and donT seek to deceive me. I am 
not Monsieur Pochard.’’ 

Ethan and the Irish dragoon laughed at 
this, and Danvers glowered at them blackly. 


i66 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


“ You have seen Monsieur Pochard, then,’^ 
smiled the young American. 

“ Less than a half hour after you had gone. 
Your trick was a most clever one ; I am an 
admirer of cleverness, even when it is dis- 
played against me, and I beg of you to accept 
my congratulations.’^ 

Despite the man’s evident anger, it seemed 
as though he meant this ; as an adept in 
trickery himself, he was forced to admiration 
at Ethan’s apparent excellence in this line. 

But tell me,” he went on, bending over 
them, how did you know that Pochard was 
concerned in this matter ? and how did you 
learn that I was to visit him upon the night 
you and this man,” indicating Longs word, 
impersonated Wheelock and myself? ” 

Ethan smiled, but shook his head. It was 
plain that the man was mystified, and, of 
course the lad had no desire to enlighten him. 

“ That,” he replied, '' is a secret.” 

Danvers bent his brows still more, and his 
lips tightened. 

A secret — yes, I suppose it is. And you 
thought to have the later developments a 
secret, too, didn’t you ? ” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 167 

What do you mean ? ’’ 

I mean with regard to the man Siki.’^ 

This/^ said Ethan in a puzzled way, is 
the second time within a very few minutes 
that you have hinted a mysterious something 
about this slippery Lascar. But I don't just 
grasp your meaning." 

You may evade the fact as you please," 
said Danvers, ‘^but it remains the same. I’ll 
tell you what I have found out. When you 
discovered who had the dispatch that night 
in your visit to the secret agent, Fochard, you 
conceived the idea which you and your 
friend. Captain Jones, have so admirably 
carried out." 

And what was that ? " 

“ To seek the Lascar, and enter into a com- 
pact with him to sell the dispatch." 

Ethan turned white ; his eyes blazed and 
he struggled desperately with the stout ropes 
that bound him. 

If I were free," he gasped, “ I’d make 
you regret those words." 

Oh, spare me any heroics," sneered the 
British spy. I know that both you and that 
Scottish renegade, John Paul Jones, profess a 


i68 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


most lofty patriotism. But neither of you 
can deceive me.’' 

** That,” cried Longsword, who had not been 
able to speak before, so great was his aston- 
ishment, is the most bla’guardly accusation 
I ever heard in me life, so it is. D’ye mean 
to say that this lad whom I held in me two 
arms as a babe, would sell his country to your 
mad old king?” 

“ If the price of his treachery were sufficient, 
of course he would,” jeered Danvers. It 
was the end of country and all else when 
he knew that ten thousand pounds would be 
gained by the delivery of the dispatch. I 
have met many men; and I am a fair judge 
of these little things, believe me.” 

If I were as sharp as you,” growled the 
Irish trooper, I’d be afraid to associate wid 
meself, so I would.” 

“I was here when the Lascar came,” said 
Danvers to Ethan, and ignoring Longsword. 

I saw him meet the earl ; I overheard what 
they said.” 

^^Ah ! ” said Ethan, with an eagerness that 
he was unable to conceal. 

‘‘ The fellow told the earl of the paper ; he 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 169 

said that it was then in the possession of an- 
other. I met him afterward in the road ; it 
was after dark, and I was soon squeezing his 
story from his throat.’^ 

“ And he told you ? ” 

'' He told me how he sailed from France in 
the Ranger ; how you were now leagued with 
him, and Jones, also ; and you, he said, were 
the person who had the paper.” 

I understand the matter now,” said Ethan. 
“ He told you what it suited him to have you 
believe.” 

Danvers laughed. 

Oh, don’t try to throw the dust in my 
eyes like that,” he said. “ I’m too old a hand 
for that sort of thing.” 

Ethan at once saw that it would be the 
merest folly to attempt to convince the man 
of the Lascar’s deception, so he said nothing 
more. 

Our friend, Siki,” said Danvers, is now 
safe on board the frigate, Drake, which is 
lying at Carrickfergus ; she was in these 
waters at the time of my capture of him, and 
I had him sent aboard for safe keeping.” 

I suppose,” said Ethan after a short 


lyo WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

silence, '' that we two are destined for some 
hulk or prison/^ 

For a prison, you may be sure,’’ laughed 
the emissary of the crown, but a private 
prison of my own. You’ll be safe enough 
there until I can end the whole matter. And 
now, where is the dispatch ? ” 

I only wish I could say,” said Ethan. 
“ But I assure you I know nothing of its 
whereabouts.” 

Danvers smiled coldly. 

“ Here, men ! ” he cried to some of his 
followers, who had withdrawn some little dis- 
tance during the above conversation, “ search 
these prisoners ; and do it thoroughly.” 

The men did as they were bidden; their 
search was complete, but, of course it resulted 
in nothing. Danvers bit his lip and was 
savage in his disappointment. 

“ Jones has it, then,” he said. The 
villain ; I’ll have it from him yet.” 

“You seem very ready, Mr. Danvers, to 
apply harsh names to Americans.” 

“ Jones is not an American.” 

“ You are wrong. By accident of birth he 
was a Scotchman ; but love of liberty and the 



7^ AN FEES CAME DOWN 
^ INTO THE HOLD 







WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 171 

willingness to dare death in her cause has 
made him American.” 

“ He is a rascally ex-slaver,” growled 
Danvers. 

“ If a lad of eighteen was a rascal for taking 
employment in a slave ship, then the English 
government must be a government of rascals 
for encouraging that hideous traffic that they 
might gain money by it.” 

“ How dare you ! ” cried the Englishman. 
“ How dare you talk so against the king’s 
government while in the king’s country ! ” 

“ I have not stopped at words against the 
king’s government,” said Ethan proudly. 

“ No ; I’ve heard of the doings of your 
pirate ship in the channel. But she’ll soon 
meet her fate. British ships and British tars 
are in search of her.” 

Ethan laughed amusedly. 

“ You saw what happened to a British ship 
less than a half hour ago, did you not? The 
Ranger will not be so easily taken.” 

Danvers was a man of violent temper ; he 
could not answer this in the calm manner 
that he desired ; so he turned away without 
a reply, and gave an order to his men in a 


172 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

low tone. In a few moments the young 
American and the Irishman were deposited 
in the bottom of a large skiff, still trussed up 
with the ropes, and were being rowed toward 
the Dee, where a small schooner-rigged tender 
lay. They were lifted on board of this vessel, 
which toward night made sail out of the 
harbor and down the coast. 

Ethan and Longs word were eased of the 
ropes, but were at once ironed in the tender’s 
hold. It was dark there, not a ray of light 
penetrated anywhere ; but they lay and listened 
to the beat of the channel waters against the 
sides, and talked in low tones. 

“ It looks,” said Longsword, gloomily, “ as 
though we two were laid up for the rest of 
the war. Wid British irons upon our legs 
and arms things don’t seem very bright, me 
lad.” 

“ Don’t say that,” cried Ethan in a sharp, 
pained voice. I can’t stand it, Shamus ; the 
thought that we may be chained up in an 
English ship or a prison of some sort when 
our country needs every pair of hands that 
can oppose her foes, makes me desperate. It’s 
like despair itself! ” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 173 

About an hour after the schooner had got 
well under way, Danvers came down into the 
hold with a lantern. He stood over them 
and stared coldly from one to the other. 

Ironed like thieves,’’ he said with a sneer. 
“ It would delight the heart of your grand- 
father, old Clarette, boy, or your English 
father, to see you so, wouldn’t it?” 

They would be glad to think that I have 
suffered something for my country.” 

Your country ! ” snarled Danvers. “ Bah, 
that nest of rats which you call a Congress 
will be broken up before long ; the arch- 
traitor, Washington, will dangle from the end 
of a rope, while his tatterdemalions will be 
hunted through the woods like foxes.” 

“ That was said long ago,” replied Ethan. 
“ But it is all as far from accomplishment as 
ever. The American people will never bow 
the knee to a king's will again.” 

Danvers had not yet overcome his anger 
of the day, and now he seemed upon the point 
of bursting into a blaze of fury. But with an 
effort he calmed himself ; flashing the rays of 
the lantern into Ethan’s face, he said : 

‘‘ Boy, somehow or other you have the 


174 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

knack of angering me, and when people 
anger me they are in danger, especially when 
they are enemies to the king. In certain 
crises I even possess the legal power of life 
and death ; and were I so minded I could 
string you from the rigging of this vessel. 
What do you say to that ? ” 

Nothing,” returned Ethan, looking him 
unflinchingly in the eye. 

Ask me that question,” said Longsword, 
“ and, faith. I’ll say plenty.” 

Be still, you Irish hound ! ” hissed the spy ; 
or ril have you stretched across a grating, 
and let you see how the boatswain can use 
the cat.” 

Arrah, don’t go to any bother on my ac- 
count,” said the dragoon coolly. I am will- 
ing enough to believe that the gentleman is 
an artist wid the cat-o’-nine-tails. Your word, 
sir, is enough for me.” 

But Danvers paid no attention to him. 
Bending over Ethan, he said : 

“ For the last time, will you tell me where 
the dispatch is hidden ? ” 

'' For the last time,” said Ethan boldly, I 
answer that I do not know.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 175 

The emissary of the crown remained staring 
in his face for a moment ; then he turned 
away ; his footsteps sounded upon the ladder, 
the hatch above was closed and they were 
left once more in darkness. 


CHAPTER XIII 


HOW THE SPY LOST HIS PRISONERS 

In the pale dawn of the early morning the 
tender dropped anchor in a small cove, and 
the two prisoners were brought upon the deck. 
The leg irons had been removed, but their 
arms were still chained behind them. 

Once more they were placed in a small 
boat, and were rowed ashore. Under guard 
of Danvers and a couple of seamen they were 
marched through the streets of a small, poor- 
looking town, and at last brought to a halt 
before a gloomy, half-ruined stone building. 
Danvers knocked loudly upon the door. 

“ This,” said he, turning to Ethan and 
Longsword as he waited for the door to be 
opened, ** is to be your place of residence until 
such time as you make up your mind to tell 
me what has become of the dispatch.” 

“ Have you not said that you thought Cap- 
tain Jones had it? ” 

But the Lascar said that you were to de- 
liver it to the earl ; and I think that that was 
176 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 177 

why the landing was made/^ The man paused 
a moment, then added with a great deal of 
eagerness in his voice, “ Tell me, did you con- 
ceal it anywhere upon St. Mary’s Isle before 
you were taken ? ” 

I have told you that I know nothing of 
the dispatch save that Siki took it from the 
cabin of the Ranger.” 

There was plain disbelief upon the face of 
the spy ; but before he could make any reply, 
the door opened slightly, as though upon a 
chain, and a woman’s face appeared — a bony, 
fierce-looking countenance with a mop of un- 
kempt hair above it. 

“What is wanted at this hour?” she de- 
manded harshly. 

“ It’s I, Meg,” replied Danvers ; “ I’ve 
brought some lodgers for you.” 

The woman seemed to recognize the voice, 
for she at once threw the door wide, and stood 
before them. She was a huge, raw-boned 
creature, and looked as strong as a man ; she 
was attired in a tattered gown, and a cloak 
was wound about her shoulders. Gazing 
sharply at the two prisoners, she burst into a 
grating chuckle. 


lyS WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“ Yankees, eh,'’ she said, as though highly 
pleased. ‘‘ But, no,” gazing at Longsword 
once more, this one is Irish, even the scar 
does not hide that, though it covers the greater 
part of his face.” 

I'll thank ye,” growled the dragoon, ‘‘ not 
to indulge in any personal remarks, mam.” 

The woman laughed gleefully, and wagged 
her head. 

The Irish all have tempers,” she said, “ but 
that don't do them any harm. I like them 
the better for it.” 

She then gave her attention to another ex- 
amination of Ethan. 

“ This one is younger,” she said, “ but he'll 
give the most trouble ; I can see it in his face. 
A strong room with a grated door will be 
needed here, Mr. Danvers,” she chuckled. 

If the young gentleman is not provided with 
these luxuries he may slip through my fingers.” 

^'That must not happen,” said Danvers, 
sharply. None of your nonsense, Meg ! Put 
them in a place where they will be safe.” 

‘‘ But that will cost more, Mr. Danvers,” 
said the woman, with a grin, “ a very great 
deal more, sir.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 179 

“ Let it,” returned Danvers, shortly. “ But 
don’t keep us standing here until wide day- 
light.” 

The woman favored him with no mild look ; 
nevertheless she did as she was bidden. A 
moment later they found themselves in a nar- 
row, low-ceilinged room, cluttered with broken 
furniture and cooking utensils ; then the 
woman opened a heavy door, disclosing a flight 
of steep steps leading into a deep cellar ; de- 
scending these, Meg still leading the way and 
holding a reeking oil lamp above her head, 
they brought up before a wall of massive stone 
work into which were set some heavy grated 
doors of iron. 

I love to look at them,” cried the woman, 
setting the lamp upon the floor and fumbling 
at her belt for the bunch of keys that hung 
there. Ah, they are beautiful doors, as safe 
and as strong as any in Europe. Any one 
whom they ever closed upon has been held as 
fast as a rat in a trap. Not one has ever es- 
caped. The great noble whose private prison 
this was in the old days, Mr. Danvers, knew 
how to build. Ah, yes, indeed. But,” with 
a chuckle, ‘‘ he never dreamed how his handi- 


i8o WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


work was to bring me my living long years 
after he was in his grave. Oh, no, he never 
knew that.’’ 

She unlocked the door before which she 
stood, and slowly swung it open, creaking and 
groaning. Then she stood aside and bowed 
mockingly to Ethan. 

“ Enter,” she invited with a grin. Enter, 
my young Yankee, and never hope to leave 
this pretty cell until Mr. Danvers gives me 
the word.” 

The boy glanced into the dungeon ; the pale 
light of the lamp showed that the w^alls were 
of rough stone, and that years of dampness 
had made them a hideous, slimy black. A 
rat scurried across the floor as the light rays 
penetrated ; there were no windows and no 
furniture of any sort, not even a stool. In one 
corner was a heap of foul-looking straw, pre- 
sumably to be used as a bed. 

Ethan hesitated upon the threshold of this 
den, and the woman laughed. 

“What!” she cried. “You don’t seem 
pleased. Perhaps my lord would like a rug 
upon the floor and paintings upon the walls.” 

“You see what is in store for you,” said 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES i8i 


Danvers. And you’ll remain here until you 
tell me what you have done with the dis- 
patch.” 

Then the spy made a sign ; the seamen from 
the schooner pushed the boy roughly into the 
dungeon. Longsword was about to follow, 
but Meg prevented him. 

“ Oh, no,” she cried with her mirthless 
laugh. “ I never have two together. Mis- 
chief is apt to be plotted that way. Here is 
your room, my brave Irelander ; it is just next 
door. You may talk as much as you like. 
But I’ll give you no chance to join your 
strength. Oh, no, no.” 

Another door was swung open and Long- 
sword stepped into a cell as damp and as un- 
wholesome as Ethan’s. The irons were then 
taken from their arms and the doors were se- 
curely locked ; and as they stood staring 
through the gratings they saw Meg pick up 
her lamp and prepare to lead the men from 
the cellar. 

“ Have you much smuggled goods in the 
place just now, Meg? ” said the spy, looking 
about. 

'' Ah, Mr. Danvers, sir, you will have your 


i 82 with JOHN PAUL JONES 


little joke. The king’s revenue never loses 
anything through me, as you know.” 

Danvers laughed. 

“You have changed your way of making a 
living, then,” said he. “ When I was on the 
cutter that patrolled this coast there was no 
hiding place that required more watching than 
this.” 

He did not wait for the woman’s reply, but 
turned to the dungeon door behind which 
Ethan stood and said : 

“ For the last time, will you answer ? ” 

“ I have nothing to say,” answered the 
boy. 

“ In a week I will return,” said the spy. 
“ Let us see how you stand this place. I 
fancy that by that time you will be ready to 
tell me anything I desire to know.” 

And with a disagreeable laugh he followed 
the others. Ethan heard the stamping of 
their feet as they climbed the stairs ; the light 
from the receding lamp flickered dimly along 
the stone passage ; then a door slammed heavily 
and all was dark. 

“ Well,” called the voice of Longsword, 
“ what do ye think of this, Master Ethan ? ” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 183 

“ It looks as though we were in for it, 
Shamus,’^ answered Ethan. 

Longsword rattled at the grated door of his 
cell and laughed. 

It was hung here to stay, sure enough,’^ 
he said. “ It would take a blast of powder to 
budge it.” 

Have you any rats over there with you?” 
asked Ethan, after a time. 

Faith and I have ; I can see a dozen pairs 
of little, red, shining eyes looking at me from 
the corners now.” Longsword stamped heavily 
upon the stone floor and then chuckled. ‘‘ Sure 
they are easy frightened, though. They run 
off at a sound.” 

The day passed slowly. They became heavy- 
eyed and weary of talking through the dark- 
ness, and stretching themselves upon the damp 
floor they slept. They were awakened by the 
rays of the woman’s lamp shining in upon 
them. Meg stood in the passage without, and 
in her hands were some mouldy, hard-looking 
crusts, and two cracked stone jugs containing 
water. 

Good-evening, my gallant rebels,” she 
saluted, grinning. 


i 84 with JOHN PAUL JONES 

Is it evening ? ” asked Longsword, his eyes 
blinking at the light. 

“ Ay, that it is ; and IVe brought your 
suppers.^’ She passed the bread and water 
through small openings at the bottoms of 
their cell doors. Bread and water,’’ she 
chuckled. “ Hah, you’ll not grow very 
plump upon such fare as that.” 

Plump,” growled the Irish dragoon, re- 
garding the crust in his hand with high dis- 
favor. “ Why a rat would starve upon such 
stuff. And it’s as hard as a block of wood.” 

He hammered the bread against the wall as 
he spoke ; it gave out a sound not unlike that 
which a block of wood would give. The 
woman writhed with laughter. 

Ah, you are a rogue, I can see that,” she 
cried. And like all the Irish, you will joke. 
But this one,” and she turned to the door of 
Ethan’s cell, ‘‘ is different.” 

Somehow the laughter had gone out of her 
voice now, and she held up the lamp so that 
she might get a better view. Ethan stood 
silently leaning against the damp wall, and 
her eyes snapped with dislike as she regarded 
him. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 185 

^‘This is the sullen one/^ she continued. 

This is the one who is thinking — thinking, 
always thinking how he can give me trouble. 
But I’ll tame your spirit, my lad, if you are 
here long. I’ve done it with your betters 
when the smugglers brought them here for 
safe keeping. So don’t be high and mighty 
with me or you’ll rue it.” 

Ethan made no answer ; he stood watching 
her quietly, and this seemed to rouse her 
anger ; she went muttering away, after a space, 
and once more left them in darkness. 

They grew to know when morning and 
evening came, for the woman always brought 
them the bread and water at these times. 

' And with each visit her spite against Ethan 
seemed to increase ; the silence of the young 
American seemed to anger her beyond meas- 
ure ; once she thrust her arm through the 
grating and struck at him. 

Faith and you’re no favorite of hers,” 
chuckled Longsword, when Ethan told him 
of this after the woman had gone. It’s too 
select ye are for her. She seems to like her 
boarders to be talkative and sociable.” 

But the incident gave Ethan an idea. They 


i86 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


had been confined in this unwholesome under- 
ground den for a week, and the boy had be- 
come almost desperate, and was inclined to 
try almost anything that gave even the faintest 
hope of escape. 

The next time the woman came with their 
food, he made it a point to stand close to the 
grating, silent, cold-mannered, watchful. He 
could see Meg’s eyes snap with anger as she 
glanced in at him. She shoved the food into 
his cell ; then in a sudden fit of cat-like fury 
she thrust her arm through the grating once 
more and aimed a blow at him. 

Like lightning the boy grasped her by the 
wrist, and throwing the full weight of his 
sinewy young body into the effort, he dragged 
her close against the cell door and held her 
fast. She struggled and fought like a tigress, 
but it was useless. He had but to wrench her 
arm slightly backward in order to bring a 
shriek from her. 

Let me go,” she panted, glaring through 
the grating at him in a fury. Let me go, 
I say.” 

‘‘I will when you unlock this door.” 

'' Let go,” cried Meg, resuming her frantic 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 187 

struggles. But a backward twitch of the fast 
held arm brought a scream of pain from her, 
and she was quiet once more. 

The key/’ demanded Ethan, firmly. “ Un- 
lock the door.” 

“ I have no key.” 

I see it among those at your belt,” said 
Ethan. 

With a snarl, Meg whipped out a murder- 
ous looking knife with her free hand, and 
reaching through the grating made a lunge 
at him. But, held as she was, she could not 
touch him, and another severe twist at the 
arm caused her to drop the knife and writhe 
with pain. 

By this time Longsword was storming up 
and down in his cell. He could hear what 
they said, but, because of his situation, could 
not see anything of what was transpiring ; his 
repeated calls to Ethan received no answer, 
for Ethan was too engrossed in his work to 
heed him. 

Once more,” said he, ignoring the woman’s 
cries, give me the key.” 

“ I can’t reach it,” she said, Let my arm 
go and I’ll give it to you.” 


i88 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


You'll give it to me now/' he replied 
steadily. 

I’ll give you my word," she whimpered. 

But he knew better than to let slip his ad- 
vantage ; for once free she would laugh at him. 
So he persisted in his demand, his strong 
fingers clasped like steel about her wrist ; and 
finally, groaning and lamenting the fate that 
would be meted out to her by Danvers, she 
selected the key from the bunch at her belt, 
fitted it in the lock and turned it. Slowly 
the door swung open, then Ethan released her 
and sprang out into the passage. 

Hurra ! " shouted Longsword, as he caught 
sight of him. Well done. Master Ethan." 

‘‘Now the other key," said the youthful 
American. 

The woman hesitated, casting a look at the 
knife upon the floor ; but Ethan kicked it be- 
yond her reach and snatched the keys. She 
then sullenly indicated the one that opened 
Longsword's dungeon, and in a moment the 
Irish ex-dragoon was free also. 

But scarcely had the latter executed the 
first intricate steps of a joyful Irish jig upon 
the flags of the passage, when there came the 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 189 

sound of a closing door from above, followed 
by footfalls upon the floor directly over their 
heads. The woman uttered a cry of delight. 

They have come ! she cried. 

Whom ? asked Ethan. 

Mr. Danvers and his men/’ she answered 
exultantly. This was the day which he had 
set for a visit to you.” 

“ Caught,” cried Longsword, his hands 
clinching and his tall raw-boned body grow- 
ing tense for the struggle which he knew was 
sure to come. 

“ Ay, caught like rats ! ” chuckled the 
woman. You thought to give me the slip, 
did you ? ” to Ethan. But you are going to 
fail. I’ll have you here for many a day yet ; 
and I’ll be even with you for the little trick 
you played upon me just now.” 

'' What’s to be done ? ” asked Ethan of the 
dragoon. 

Fight,” answered that worthy with great 
promptness. 

Ethan smiled. 

“ Good for you, old fire eater,” he said. 

So we will. There may not be so many of 
them after all.” 


190 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

But they are armed, and we have nothing 
but our bare hands,'’ mourned Longsword. 

“ But we’ll have the advantage of a sur- 
prise,” said Ethan. 

All hope of this advantage, however, was 
blasted a moment later, for the woman, upon 
hearing the boy’s words, uttered a warning 
shriek that rang through the cellar with ear 
splitting shrillness. 

Instantly there came a trampling of feet 
upon the floor above, and Meg laughed in their 
faces triumphantly. But the laugh had 
scarcely died upon her lips when Longsword 
pushed her into one of the open cells and 
closed and locked the door. 

‘‘ Now, then,” cried Ethan, “ let’s meet them 
at the foot of the stairs.” 

As he spoke he kicked over the lamp, 
plunging the cellar into complete darkness. 
As they reached the foot of the stairs the door 
at the top opened, and the yellow rays of a 
candle, in the hands of Danvers, dimly lit up 
the narrow way. Ethan drew Longsword 
under the stairs out of sight. 

“ Hello,” called the British spy. “ What is 
the matter ? ” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 191 

The cries of the woman from the dungeon and 
the rattling of the grated door answered him. 

“ Something is wrong,” said he, hurriedly. 

Come along, two of you ; the other two re- 
main here, and keep your eyes open.” 

As Danvers led the way into the cellar, 
Ethan nudged Longs word. 

Only two in the room above,” said he in 
a whisper. 

One apiece,” said the grim dragoon with 
a chuckle. 

Danvers and the two seamen passed quickly 
along toward the dungeons ; instantly Ethan 
and his companion were out of their hiding- 
place and softly climbing the stairs. When 
they reached the top, they suddenly flung 
open the door and leaped into the room. In 
the middle of the floor stood the two remain- 
ing sailors from the tender ; and before they 
could recover from the surprise which the 
sudden appearance of the prisoners oc- 
casioned, they were beaten down by a series 
of swift stunning blows. Then Ethan and 
Longsword pushed into the street and went 
speeding away through the silent town to- 
ward the sea. 


CHAPTER XIV 


HOW ETHAN AND LONGSWORD TOOK THE 
SCHOONER 

They ran for some little time, and then 
Ethan looked back and saw no signs of 
pursuit. 

“ Take it easy,” said he to Longsword. 

There is no one after us.” 

“ There will be in a few minutes,” panted 
the Irishman, distrustfully. “ They’ll lose no 
time, sure, when they find which way we’ve 
gone.” 

However, they slackened their pace, but 
still headed toward the sea. 

We must get a boat,” said Ethan. “ It’s 
our only hope. To be seen ashore means 
arrest ; and this part of the coast is too 
thickly populated for hiding.” 

‘‘ You are right,” answered Longsword. 

We’ll have to get afloat ; it’s very little 
chance we’ll have to do anything but starve ; 
but if we can get across the channel into 
Ireland, I’ll go bail that we’ll be safe enough. 

192 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 193 

There is many a colleen or gossoon that would 
hide us away, if it was only because we are 
enemies of the Saxon/' 

A few moments later Ethan remarked, 
“We are near the wharf where we landed ; 
see that tall signal mast ; I remember pass- 
ing it." 

“ Sure enough," said Longsword ; “ and 
here is the wharf." 

It was a stout wooden pier built out into 
the cove for some distance ; almost directly 
opposite it, about a musket shot away, were 
the lights of the schooner that had brought 
them to the town. They stood at the head 
of the pier for some moments ; then Ethan 
said, suddenly, 

“ I have an idea." 

“ What is it?" 

“ Danvers and his men must have landed 
at this pier ; and if so we’ll be sure to find 
their boat at the end of it." 

“ Bravo ! " breathed Longsword. “ Sure, 
ye have a clear head on your shoulders. 
Master Ethan, so ye have." 

“ Shall we try for it ? " 

“ We shall, more power to us ! " 


194 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

They walked slowly down the pier ; as 
they neared the end Longsword caught Ethan 
by the arm. 

‘‘ Sh-h ! ’’ warned he. 

“ What is it ? asked the boy. 

“ There is some one bey ant there. 

Ethan strained his eyes through the dark- 
ness, and at last he made out the shadowy 
forms of several men standing at the end of 
the pier. 

A guard over the boat,” he whispered to 
the Irish dragoon. 

“ That Danvers is a suspicious bla’guard,” 
grumbled Longsword. Sure here we have 
sorra the weapon — not even a lump of a stick 
— and we have the luck to come across a 
couple of able bodied lads wid cutlasses and 
pistols, I have no doubt.” 

“ Those we knocked down a few moments 
ago had the same,” said Ethan evenly. ‘‘ And 
we had no trouble in disposing of them.” 

‘‘ Right ! Ah, but iPs yourself thaPs your 
father’s son, me lad.” 

They crept softly down the pier ; at one 
side was a huge fisherman’s net hung upon a 
frame to dry ; they placed this between them- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 195 

selves and the seamen from the schooner so 
that they might not detect any movement in 
the shadow. As they drew nearer they could 
hear the sailors’ voices. 

“ A quiet night, mate,” said one. 

Yes,” answered the other, quiet enough. 
But I’d rather spend it in my hammock than 
watching the lights on the water.” 

I wonder what it is that this government 
fellow Danvers is up to.” 

I don’t know. I don’t even think the 
skipper knows.” 

“ He must be well thought of at the ad- 
miralty, shipmate, to have a schooner placed 
at his service like this.” 

Ay ! You’re right there. But it’s gov- 
ernment work he’s on ; those two prisoners 
he took on St. Mary’s Isle seem mighty im- 
portant to him.” 

Did you hear where he took ’em ? Up to 
old Meg Rawlins’. She’s the widow of old 
Rawlins the smuggler ; Ben Kaye was in the 
party that went there ; he said the boy and the 
Irishman were locked in cells in the under- 
ground vault where Rawlins used to hide his 
^ run ’ goods.” 


196 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

I wonder why he didn’t take ’em to a 
reg’lar government prison ? ” 

“ Private reasons, I guess. These secret 
service agents are queer fish, mate.” 

The men continued to talk in the same 
strain for some little time. Ethan and Long- 
sword crouched behind the hanging net and 
listened. 

“ I say,” remarked one, at last, “ suppose 
we take a walk up the pier and see if they 
are coming. My eyes are closing for want of 
sleep.” 

“ But who’ll watch the boat? ” 

“ Oh, let it take care of itself There is no 
one awake here in this sleepy old town. And 
then who wants a few old government cut- 
lasses and pistols?” 

“ Come along, then, mate.” 

The two seamen started up the pier ; and 
as they disappeared in the shadows, Ethan 
and the Irish soldier crept from behind the 
net. 

“ Cutlasses and pistols in the boat,” whis- 
pered Longsword with a joyous chuckle. 

'' It couldn’t be better,” said Ethan. “ In 
with you, now ; and we’ll push off.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 197 

They clambered into the jolly-boat that was 
tied to a ring in the wharf log. Ethan cast 
otf, placed the blade of an oar against one of 
the piles, and with a strong shove sent the 
craft well clear of the pier. But they had 
scarcely placed the oars into the rowlocks and 
settled themselves for the pull out of the cove 
when they heard running feet coming down 
the pier and the sound of angry voices. 

It^s Danvers ! cried Ethan. “ Pull, 
Shamus ! 

They bent to their oars manfully and the 
jolly-boat shot away from the wharf, just 
as a shadowy group appeared through the 
darkness. 

The boat ! cried the voice of Danvers. 

IPs gone ! 

There she is, sir,” said a seaman, pointing, 

and dowse my tops if your prisoners ain’t in 
her.” 

With an inarticulate cry of rage Danvers 
whipped out a pistol. 

Stop ! ” he shouted. 

** Pull hard,” said Ethan coolly to Long- 
sword. 

** Hard it is,” came the voice of the ex- 


198 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

dragoon, as his powerful arms and shoulders 
labored at the oars. 

Seeing that no attention was paid to his 
command, Danvers raised his pistol and fired. 
The fiash and report lit and wakened the 
night ; then the ping-g-g of the bullet came to 
the ears of the two in the boat as it went past 
them. A series of quick, snapping shots fol- 
lowed as the seamen also discharged their 
pieces. When the steady splash of the oars 
in the water told the British emissary that 
the shots had been ineffective, he shouted in 
a voice that could be plainly heard by the two 
rowers : 

“ Boats ! After them ! 

“ There are no boats, sir, except those of 
the fishermen around on the other side of the 
inlet.’’ 

“ Lead the way then and show me where 
they are. We’ll make the schooner, and we’ll 
soon overhaul these Yankees.” 

Ethan signaled Longsword silently to stop 
pulling, and the dragoon obeyed. Running 
feet could be heard thudding dully upon the 
planking of the pier. 

“ Did you hear that ? ” asked the boy. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 199 

I did, faith,” answered Longsword. ‘‘And 
he speaks the truth. Let them get out to the 
schooner and it’s all up with us. There’s a 
good breeze blowing and these clouds will not 
hang before the moon long. So wid the wind 
in their sails and floods of light to see by, we 
can’t escape them.” 

Ethan felt with his foot for the cutlasses and 
pistols that lay in the stern. 

“ Could we prevent them gaining the 
schooner?” he asked. 

“ All you want is encouragement,” declared 
Longsword, “ and you’d face an army. No, 
Master Ethan, we couldn’t stop them. Ye 
know that I’m never anyways backward in a 
fight ; but, faith, this would be mere folly, so 
it would.” 

There was a silence, during which they 
resumed pulling. At length Ethan dropped 
his oars and whirled about, facing the dra- 
goon. 

“ I have it ! ” he cried. 

“ Ye have what ? ” 

“ The solution. We’ll take the schooner ! ” 

“Boy, dear, are ye mad? ’’gasped the as- 
tonished Irishman. 


200 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


** Not a bit of it/’ said the lad excitedly. 
“ Listen. There were only about ten men in 
the vessel all told. There were four with Dan- 
vers and two upon the pier. That makes six, 
and leaves only four on the schooner.” 

Longsword drew in a long, deep breath and 
then said : 

Good ! But let’s look to the weapons 
before we begin.” 

They examined the pistols and found there 
were four of them ; they were ready charged 
and primed ; the cutlasses were of the short- 
bladed “ hanger ” type of the British navy. 

“ Sure, what makes people turn out such 
weeney little blades ? ” said Longsword. 

Faith, Master Ethan, these are not a man’s 
size at all, at all. I like a sword a good three 
feet long, and wid some weight in it, faix.” 

“ I suppose you’ll have to do with what we 
can find here, old fire-eater,” smiled Ethan. 
“ These cutlasses are not so bad for close work. 
They are short, but remember the Eomans 
conquered the world with a short sword.” 

If they’d had long ones they’d done the 
job in half the time,” said Longsword. 

‘‘ Ready ? ” asked the boy. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 201 


Ready/’ answered the dragoon. 

They headed for the schooner and began to 
pull swiftly, but softly. On shore all was 
silent, and darkness still hung pall-like over 
the water, though the heavy clouds were 
visibly thinning before the wind, and here 
and there a silver spot glimmered among 
them. 

The lights of the schooner became more and 
more distinct ; and at length they were under 
her bow, clinging to the chains, and listening. 
The low murmur of voices came from the 
after part of the vessel, but forward all was 
still. 

“ It’s going to be easy work,” said Ethan. 

They made fast the jolly-boat to the chains, 
then thrust the loaded pistols into their belts. 
Ethan, with a naked cutlass between his teeth, 
went up the side like a cat ; and in a moment 
the tall Irishman stood beside him on the 
schooner’s deck. 

Ahoy,” suddenly called a startled voice 
from the after deck. Who’s that for’ard ? ” 
Don’t answer,” breathed Ethan. 

They maintained silence ; then came the 
voice once more. 


202 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


“ Is that you, Mr. Blake? ” 

No answer. 

'' I don’t see anything,” said a second voice, 
after a pause. 

“ Well, I do. Some one came over the side 
just now ; it looked like two, but I can see 
only one, now.” 

“ Better go below, and sing out to the skip- 
per.” 

Not till I’m sure about what or who it is.” 

Footsteps advanced ; from behind the cabin 
top two forms came into view. 

“ Now,” breathed Ethan Carlyle. 

“ I’m right here, wid ye,” answered Long- 
sword in the same low tone. 

The sailors of the schooner had advanced 
no more than a dozen steps when the two 
desperate boarders bounded upon them, and 
the cold barrel of a pistol pressed against the 
forehead of each. 

Not a word,” said Longsword, harshly. 

Who are you ? ” asked one of the startled 
men. 

Never mind that,” said Ethan. “ Shamus, 
tie them up.” 

The grim dragoon stuck his pistol in his 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 203 

belt : with the keen edge of his cutlass he cut 
some ropes, and in a few moments both men 
were securely lashed to the mainmast, back to 
back. 

“ A piece of sail cloth would do for a gag,^’ 
said Ethan. 

“ And here is just the thing,” said Long- 
sword as he picked up a topsail, apparently 
used as a tarpaulin. He cut some broad strips 
from this ; and despite the protests of the sea- 
men, these were bound tightly over their 
mouths. 

“ Keep a watch over them,” said Ethan to 
his companion, after all was finished. 

“ Where are you going? ” asked the other. 

Below. I think I'll treat the commander 
of the schooner to a small surprise.” 

Longsword made no comment, though his 
face, had Ethan been able to see it, took on an 
anxious expression. The youthful American 
advanced, pistol and hanger in hand, to the 
companionway. A glimmer attracted his at- 
tention, and looking down through a small 
open skylight he saw two men at the cabin 
table, engaged in an earnest conversation. 

The capture of the watch had been accom- 


204 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

plished with almost no noise, so the two be- 
low were unconscious of what had taken 
place. 

Softly Ethan descended the companion lad- 
der and reached the cabin door. He paused a 
moment listening, and heard one of the men 
say, 

“ I tell you, Blake, it is growing desperate. 
British shipping is in the greatest danger. 
That rascal Paul Jones is a menace to the 
entire coast. The Drake is out after him, and 
I hope she comes up with him soon.^^ 

You may be correct,” said the second 
voice, ‘‘but my opinion, Captain Spencer, is 
that there is not a Yankee nearer to us this 
minute than the coast of France.” 

The door opened at that exact moment, and 
the stalwart form of Ethan Carlyle stood 
before them, his pistol pointed at their heads 
and his hanger ready in his hand. 

“ You are wrong in that, sir,” remarked the 
lad coolly ; “ for here is one at your side.” 

“ What does this mean ? ” exclaimed Captain 
Spencer, leaping up. 

“ It means that you are my prisoners,” ob- 
served Ethan, in an even tone. “ Sit down 



^THAN CARLYLE STOOD BEFORE THEM 





WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 205 

and don^t become excited. It will do no 
good.’’ 

“ Draw, Blake,” roared the schooner’s cap- 
tain, as he flashed out his blade. But he had 
scarcely lifted it when the sword of the young 
American swept downward like a flash and 
knocked it from his hand ; then a blow from 
the flat of the weapon sent him back against 
the cabin wall. 

The next effort at resistance,” said Ethan, 
will meet with a shot from this,” and he 
presented the pistol once more. 

What do you want, boy ? ” demanded 
Blake, as he stood hesitating, his hand upon 
his sword. 

I want you to take your belt and tie the 
captain’s hands behind him.” 

I’ll not do it,” cried Blake. 

“ I’ll give you just one minute to make up 
your mind,” said Ethan. 

The mate of the British schooner looked 
into the boy’s set, determined face : nothing 
but resolve were in the quiet eyes ; and so the 
man reluctantly did as he was commanded. 
Then Ethan called to the dragoon and Long- 
sword came down into the cabin with a couple 


2o6 with JOHN PAUL JONES 


of lengths of rope ; in a short time the two 
officers were safely bound, and the cabin ran- 
sacked for arms ; all the muskets, pistols and 
other things of the sort were taken upon deck ; 
then the cabin was locked with the glowering 
officers within it. 

“ Now then, look alive,’’ cried Ethan as 
they reached the deck once more. 

Across the waters of the cove stole a faint 
thread of light; the wind had continued to 
blow steadily, and the clouds had almost 
drifted off the face of the moon. 

“ Hark ! ” said Longsword, lifting a silencing 
hand. 

From the direction of the shore came the 
steady “ creak, creak ” of oars ; across the 
trail of moonlight a large boat was seen to 
dart, coming toward the schooner. 

“ It’s Danvers and the rest of the men,” 
cried Ethan. 

‘‘ They’ll be here before we can get up the 
anchor,” said Longsword. • 

“Then we’ll impress help,” said Ethan 
briefly. Stepping to the sides of the men 
lashed to the mast he cut their bonds with his 
hanger. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 207 

Now then, my lads,” said he, lend a 
hand at the capstan.” 

For a moment the men hesitated ; they had 
caught sight of the advancing boat, and knew 
that it meant help ; but the Irish dragoon^s 
pistol poked itself into their faces without 
any parleying, and in another instant the 
capstan was clanking merrily, and the heavy 
anchor was being drawn from the bottom of 
the cove. Then the seamen lent a reluctant 
hand at hoisting the mainsail and the jibs. As 
the wheel whirled under the skilful hands of 
Ethan Carlyle, the hanging canvas filled and 
the foot of the schooner broke the first ripple 
on her way seaward. 

The boat was now near at hand, and the 
voice of Danvers came booming across the 
water. 

Schooner, ahoy.” 

'' Ahoy, the boat,” was Ethan’s answer as 
he leaned his weight upon the wheel and 
watched the press of wind in the sheets with 
satisfaction. 

Heave to,” shouted Danvers. '' What do 
you mean by this, Spencer?” 

Another sail went up on the schooner and 


2o8 with JOHN PAUL JONES 


filled ; the handy little craft responded to this 
increased speed instantly and went flowing 
ahead, with a wake of spume behind her. 

The moon had just slipped from behind a 
cloud and lit up the cove with the brilliancy 
of day. Danvers was standing up in the stern 
of the boat. With a cry of rage he saw his 
vessel filling rapidly away ; he saw Ethan at 
the wheel waving a mocking hand to him ; 
he saw the Irish dragoon, with a brace of 
pistols, hovering over the two English seamen 
in the waist. Then the moon hid her face 
once more ; the creaking of blocks came to his 
ears, and the wash of the waters as the flying 
vessel dashed it from her bow. Danvers shook 
his fist in the direction of the sound and his 
voice reached the ears of Ethan through the 
darkness. 

You have the best of it this time. But he 
laughs best who laughs last, my lad ! 


CHAPTER XV 


HOW THE SCHOONER CAME UPON THE DRAKE 
IN THE DARKNESS 

Within a few hours the schooner was well 
out in the channel and bowling along at a 
spanking pace ; the two seamen, now that 
there was no immediate hope of rescue, as the 
boat had promised, were quiet and willing 
enough to work the vessel under her new 
masters. But Longsword kept his eye upon 
them for all that ; he had no confidence in the 
faith of captured men ; long experience in 
warfare had taught him that they were only 
to be depended upon when they could not 
help themselves. 

^*Is it for Ireland you^ll be making? 
asked the trooper of Ethan, who still held the 
wheel. 

** I don^t see the need of that, now,^’ said the 
lad, thoughtfully. ** It was a good idea 
enough when we had only an open boat ; but 
now that we have a vessel like this what is 
the matter with taking her up through the 
209 


210 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


channel and running her into some French 
port ? 

“ Nothing in the world/’ answered Long- 
sword with great promptness. He seemed 
vastly taken by the notion, but for all that, 
added : ‘‘ But there will be many British 

ships of war in these waters now, Master 
Ethan, looking for the Ranger.” 

“ This little craft is a clean, free sailor,” 
said the boy. “ If we come upon an enemy 
we can run for it.” 

“ And we can make a bit of a fight, too,” 
said the Irishman. “ There are two six- 
pounders in the bow, and the four carronades, 
beyant there, look as though they would give 
good service, faith.” 

Ethan laughed. 

But we have no gun crews, Longsword,” 
protested he. 

The Celt scratched his head. 

“ That’s so, sure,” he admitted. “ I never 
once thought of that.” 

They held a course up the channel all night ; 
the moon rode grandly in the starlit heavens, 
and bathed the chopping waters with radi- 
ance. But toward morning her glory waned, 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 211 


and the darkness that ensued was of that 
complete pall-like sort that usually precedes 
dawn. 

Then a fog settled slowly down — the wet, 
clinging mist that is common in those waters, 
and they sailed on through it, chilled and 
silent. Deeper and thicker it grew as the mo- 
ments went by ; they had sighted no vessel 
since they had run out ; but now, with the 
suddenness of magic, the gleaming bow lights 
of a large ship appeared ahead like the 
angry eyes of some sea monster glaring upon 
them. 

Ethan threw the wheel down hard ; the 
nose of the schooner swung about in answer 
and she plunged across the bow of the ship 
like a ghost. A startled cry came from the 
larger vessel's deck, then followed a hubbub 
of sounds ; and at last a voice hailed them. 

Ahoy ! What vessel is that ? " 

The creaking of the yards of the ship 
showed that she was about to investigate the 
schooner ; but at the hail, Ethan and Shamus 
O'Moore looked at one another blankly. 

I never thought to ask the name of this 
craft," said the boy. 


212 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


Nor I/’ answered the Irishman, “ but 
well know in a minute, faith/^ 

Ahoy,^^ came from the ship, which had run 
off some little distance before her yards could 
be dressed to meet the change of course. She 
was now looming up huge and grim through 
the mists of the early morning. What ship 
is that?’’ 

Answer,” Longs word said to one of the 
British seamen. 

The man hesitated sullenly : but the fierce, 
crushing grip that the dragoon suddenly put 
upon his shoulder caused him to call out at 
the top of his voice : 

“ His Majesty’s schooner. Condor.” 

The ship was now very close at hand, in- 
deed the two vessels were within easy pistol 
shot of each other. 

This is the frigate, Drake,” came the voice 
from the ship deck. ‘‘ Who’s your com- 
mander? ” 

“ Captain Spencer.” 

Have you run across any other vessel since 
dark?” 

‘‘ No,” answered the sailor at Longsword’s 
prompting. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 213 

We are looking for the pirate, Paul Jones ; 
he’s reported to be in these waters. Look out 
for him.” 

There was then a sharp altercation between 
the speaker and another person who appeared 
to have just come upon deck. After a mo- 
ment the new voice cried harshly : “ Condor, 
ahoy ! ” 

“ Ahoy ! ” answered Ethan. 

Heave to ; I’m coming aboard of you.” 

“ We can’t have him do that,” said the boy 
to Longs word. 

The moment he set foot on this deck, the 
men would tell him everything,” agreed the 
Irish soldier. 

“ Clap on more sail,” said Ethan ; “ we’ll 
run for it.” 

The men, at Longsword’s stern command, set 
the foresail and a couple of topsails ; under the 
increased pressure, the Condor drew away, and 
the Drake faded to a blur and at last the mist 
swallowed her up all altogether. 

Put out all the lights,” called Ethan. 
“ We can give her the slip in this fog.” 

Longsword promptly extinguished all the 
lanterns ; shouts from the Drake came ever 


214 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

more dimly through the night ; a drum 
throbbed dully. 

“ They are beating to quarters/’ said Ethan. 

“ Let them/’ laughed Longsword. ‘‘ Sure 
if they begin firing in a fog like this it’s only 
waste good powder they’ll be doing.” 

Ethan had changed the course of the Con- 
dor until she stood as before the meeting ; the 
wind blew briskly once more and the fog be- 
gan to lift before it. The schooner had made 
some little distance before this died away, 
and the mist settled once more. Nothing was 
seen of the British ship. 

“ We have eluded them very nicely,” 
laughed Ethan, as he gazed into the gray wall 
behind them, vainly endeavoring to catch a 
glimpse of the Englishman. 

He had no sooner uttered these words than 
a shout rang out from Longsword in the bow. 
Whirling about, his hand upon the butt of a 
pistol, he was dumbfounded to see the red and 
green bow lights glaring at the schooner for the 
second time that night. 

“ The Drake once more,” cried Longsword 
in amazement. 

It can’t be,” answered Ethan, easing the 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 215 

schooner a trifle. ‘‘ We left the Drake behind 
us.'’ 

“ You’ve been sailing in a circle,” shouted 
one of the English seamen, exultantly. “ The 
Drake is a smart craft, and she’s got you 
now.” 

Ahoy ! ” came through the gloom of the 
misty morning. ‘‘ What craft is that ? ” 

British schooner Condor,” cried the sailor 
before he could be prevented. “ What ship is 
that ? ” 

Ethan heard the man chuckle as he waited 
for the expected answer. But the chuckle 
died in the British tar’s throat when the voice 
from the newcomer shouted. 

The American sloop of war Ranger ; heave 
to, or I’ll blow you out of the water I ” 


CHAPTER XVI 


HOW THE RANGER FOUGHT THE DRAKE 

With cries of joy both Ethan and Long- 
sword heard these welcome words. Ethan 
brought the schooner to ; in a few moments a 
boat was lowered and rowed away from the 
American ship. When Wallingford, third 
lieutenant of the Ranger, climbed over the 
schooner’s rail he was astonished to find him- 
self grasped by the hand. 

What, Carlyle,” he cried in amazement. 

“ None other,” laughed the boy. “You 
aren’t rid of me yet, you see.” 

“We thought you taken by the enemy on 
St. Mary’s Isle.” 

“ So I was ; but it’s a long story and will keep. 
You’d better have some men sent on board to 
take charge of this craft. It’s a prize that 
Longsword and I took some distance up the 
coast.” 

Lieutenant Wallingford looked his surprise, 
but said nothing. A crew was soon placed on 

216 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 217 

board the Condor, and Ethan and the Irish 
dragoon were taken to the Ranger. 

John Paul Jones was undisguisedly de- 
lighted at the unexpected return of the two 
adventurers. He shook their hands and ex- 
pressed his pleasure warmly. 

We are headed for Carrickfergus,’’ he said. 

We understand that the frigate Drake has 
orders to come out after us.'^ 

“ She is already out,” said Ethan eagerly. 
“ We met her and slipped away from her less 
than an hour ago.” 

Hah ! ” said the commander of the Ran- 
ger, “ then the struggle may be nearer at hand 
than I fancied.” 

He took Ethan down into the cabin, and 
listened to the news which the lad had of the 
dispatch. 

** The villain,” cried the captain, with flushed 
face, when he heard of Danvers’ charge against 
Ethan and himself regarding the paper. It 
will go hard with him if I ever come within 
reach of him.” 

They talked for some time ; the Ranger 
was once more under way and her nose was 
headed for Carrickfergus as before. Ethan 


218 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


and Longsword slept well that morning after 
they turned in, and awoke just as the Ranger 
ran into the outer harbor of the Irish port. 

The Drake was there, having arrived some 
hours earlier, and just as Ethan came on deck 
her captain was sending off a boat to the 
Ranger to find out what she was. The boat 
was in charge of a hectoring British lieutenant, 
and as it came alongside the American vessel 
he cried sharply. 

Now you, sir, what ship is this ? 

There came no answer from the Ranger; 
the lieutenant saw a long line of grinning 
faces looking down at him over her rail and 
he grew purple with rage. 

You unmannerly rascals,” he roared, “ I’ll 
teach you respect to a king’s ofiicer.” 

He gave a command to his men ; they 
dropped their oars, seized their arms and fol- 
lowed him up the Ranger’s side. The vessel’s 
ports were closed and the lieutenant had mis- 
taken her for a saucy merchantman. But 
imagine his consternation when he found 
himself upon the deck of a fully armed ship 
and face to face with a smiling young officer 
who politely demanded his sword. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 219 

What ship is this ? ” he demanded weakly. 

The Continental sloop of war, Ranger,’’ 
answered John Paul Jones, still smiling. I 
think your commander has been in search of 
us.” 

He has,” answered the lieutenant, filled 
with anger at the result of his own and his 
captain’s lack of caution. “ And he’ll sink 
you now, sir, you may be sure.” 

“ That remains to be seen.” 

The American looked toward the Drake, 
which was now hoisting her anchors and ap- 
parently preparing to come out, and added : 

“ The Drake seems a pretty ship, indeed, in 
daylight. I have only seen her once before, 
and that was under cover of night. She looks 
as though she would offer a very interesting 
battle indeed.” 

You may be sure of that, sir,” answered 
the British officer stiffly. 

Both he and his boat’s crew were disarmed 
and sent below ; then their boat was cast off 
and the Ranger made ready for action. While 
this was being done Ethan cried suddenly to 
Captain Jones : 

Look there, sir ! ” 


220 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


He pointed toward the British ship as he 
spoke ; and the captain saw a number of boats 
containing soldiers, pulling out to her. 

Oh, Captain Burdon of the Drake is add- 
ing to his ship^s company,” commented he, 
evenly. Well, perhaps hell need them.” 

They look like volunteers, by their uni- 
form,” remarked Longsword. 

In this the Irish dragoon was right. A 
Lieutenant William Dobbs had been engaged 
in recruiting a band for coast defense in the 
neighborhood of Carrickfergus ; he had of- 
fered them to Captain Burdon for service upon 
the Drake at this crisis, and they had been 
accepted. 

The regular ship’s company of the frigate 
was one hundred and fifty officers and men ; 
she carried two more guns than the Ranger, 
but they were lighter ; and so the vessels were 
pretty evenly matched. 

The Drake finall}^ stood out to sea toward 
the Ranger ; the wind was blowing toward 
the shore and her progress was rather slow. 
Captain Jones remarked quietly to Ethan, 

“ In an hour or less the story will be told. 
I trust that the Lascar, Siki, is aboard this 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 221 


ship, as Danvers said ; for after I take her I 
should very much like to question him.’^ 

Just then Longsword came aft with a seri- 
ous look upon his face. Saluting he said, 
Captain dear, there’s a ruction among the 
men, so there is.” 

What do you mean?” asked the officer 
quickly. 

“ I mean that they are growling among 
themselves like a pack of sullen dogs for’ard, 
there. It shames me to say it, sir, but 1 
fancy that they have little stomach for the 
fight.” 

The commander swept the deck of his ship 
with angry eye. The crew stood in groups, 
sullen and lowering ; Lieutenants Simpson 
and Hall were upon the quarter-deck, and 
every action and word that they uttered 
seemed to add to the growing feeling among 
the men. 

“ This vessel is no match for a well set up 
frigate,” said Simpson, in a voice that carried 
to the ears of his captain. We’ve come out 
after prizes, and not to be slaughtered by the 
guns of men of war.” 

“ The Drake carries more weight of metal 


222 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


than we,” agreed Hall, and if I were in com- 
mand of this ship I’d make a clean run for it. 
To wait for this frigate is to wait for plenty 
of hard knocks, little credit and no plunder.” 

With a few swift steps John Paul Jones was 
at his side ; there had been a low murmur of 
approval from the seamen at these words of 
their officers ; and the commander’s eyes were 
stormy, and flashed menacingly as they rested 
upon his lieutenants’ dogged faces. 

“ So, gentlemen,” said he in a voice like 
ice, “ I find you still at your old trick of de- 
moralization, do I ? ” 

“ I don’t understand you, sir,” said Simp- 
son drawing himself erect. 

'^Nor I, Captain Jones,” said Hall. 

Then allow me to make my meaning 
plain. Since this ship sailed from Ports- 
mouth you have been daily increasing in 
your insubordination. Things have come to 
such a pass that it almost seems necessary 
for me to consult you before issuing a com- 
mand.” 

A good captain always consults his 
officers,” said Simpson with a thinly-veiled 
sneer. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 223 

In spite of the protestations which I offered 
that day on St. Mary’s Isle, you plundered the 
home of a defenseless woman. I submitted 
rather than risk a mutiny that would deprive 
my country of a valuable vessel. But if you 
think that I will continue to submit, you are 
very much mistaken.” 

Simpson and Hall exchanged glances and 
smiled. The captain saw this and his eyes 
flashed with a more dangerous light. 

You are inciting to mutiny in the face of 
the enemy,” said he, still in the same cold, 
even voice. “ And that is punishable by 
death.” 

The two men started, and the smiles fled 
from their faces. 

I order you to your stations and expect 
you to carry out my orders to the letter. At 
the slightest sign of disinclination upon your 
part to do so. I’ll clap you in irons and take 
you to France for trial before the commission- 
ers. To your posts, gentlemen.” 

The two officers, pale of face and furtive- 
eyed, went to their places at the batteries as 
commanded. John Paul Jones followed them 
with his eyes for a moment. Then he said to 


224 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Wallingford, who had stood by ready to sup- 
port him in case of need, 

Mr. Wallingford, have the bos’en pipe all 
hands.^’ 

The hoarse call rang through the ship and 
all the seamen stood at attention. The com- 
mander spoke to them from his quarter-deck. 

Men of the Ranger, he said, on this 
cruise we have taken many prizes and struck 
some good blows. We have made the British 
government fear us as it never feared ship be- 
fore. But they have resolved to take us ; 
they have said that we do not dare to stand 
and fight their armed ships man to man and 
gun for gun. The world has heard this, or at 
least that part of it which we care about ; the 
young republic of the west is waiting to hear 
of the deeds of the ships which she sent to 
defy Britain in her own seas.’^ 

There was a visible stirring among the men ; 
for the greater part they were mercenary mar- 
iners, men of many nations who had shipped 
for the booty alone ; but there were many 
Yankees among them, and these felt the ap- 
peal of their chief. 

Shall it be said of us that the first vessel 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 225 

of equal strength which we have met has 
daunted us ? 

“ No ! shouted a voice. And there was a 
murmur among the crew. 

Then I call upon you to help me fight 
this ship/^ cried the captain, in ringing tones. 
“ Stand to your guns manfully, and I promise, 
in one hour, to give you victory.’’ 

A cheer swelled up and broke into a frantic 
hurrah ; then with a wave of the hand the 
chief dismissed them to their stations. 

They will fight now,” remarked Ethan 
to Longs word. 

They will, faith,” said the Irish dragoon. 

And it’s little chance of defeat we have if 
they do their best, for there are some useful 
lads among them. Master Ethan.” 

John Paul Jones now stood out to sea and 
drew his foe as far away from shore as possi- 
ble. 

** In case he is defeated,” said the commander 
to Ethan, Burdon might escape back into the 
harbor if we fought too far in shore.” 

** Look at the yachts coming out with her,” 
said the young American who had watched 
every movement of the Englishman. 


226 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Paul Jones laughed. 

They desire to be eye-witnesses of an Eng- 
lish victory, doubtless. It is a pity to dash 
their hopes, but I’m afraid that we will be 
forced to do so.” 

When at last the British frigate had come 
within easy distance, she hailed. 

What vessel is that?” demanded Captain 
Burdon. 

The Ranger, Paul Jones, commander. We 
are waiting for you, so strip for the fight.” 

As he spoke the American captain gave a 
signal and the stars and stripes shot up to the 
masthead ; then the helm was suddenly thrown 
up and the Ranger darted across the bows of 
the British vessel and poured a raking broad- 
side into her. The captain of the Drake tried 
to bring the frigate across the Ranger’s stern, 
but Paul Jones prevented this ; the two ships 
were now yard arm to yard arm and poured 
a terrific fire into each other’s rigging and 
hulls. 

Ethan Carlyle, whose ability as a gunner 
had been discovered by Captain Jones long 
before, had charge of a six pounder in the 
bow. He and Longsword, stripped to the 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 227 

waists, and all begrimed with powder smoke, 
served this piece with deadly effect. 

In the heat of the battle the gallant young 
Lieutenant Wallingford rushed up to Ethan. 

Captain Jones desires you to try for her 
forerigging,” panted he. “If we can cripple 
her badly aloft wedl make her strike.” 

Longsword had just rammed a charge into 
the gun, and Ethan sighted it coolly. A rain 
of musket shots was being poured into them 
by the soldier volunteers upon the Drake ; 
but the young gunner paid no heed to this. 
Applying the match the gun roared redly ; 
the foretop-gallant yard of the British ship 
splintered and hung down the mast in a tangle 
of rigging. 

“ Hurrah,” yelled Longsword. “ A fine 
shot, faith ! ” 

“ And placed in the right spot,” said Wall- 
ingford. Almost as the words left his mouth, 
this brave young officer uttered a smothered 
groan, clasped both hands to his breast and 
sank into the arms of the Irish dragoon. 

“ Is he hit ? ” cried Ethan, anxiously, spring- 
ing forward. “ Is he badly w^ounded ? ” 

“ He have his death, sir,” replied Long- 


228 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


sword solemnly. It^s a musket-ball, and 
from the spot it struck, it split the boy’s 
brave heart.” 

As he spoke the grim Irishman tenderly 
lowered the still, white form to the deck ; then 
in silence, and with set, hard faces, he and 
Ethan Carlyle once more turned to the serving 
of the gun. 

At length the Drake was little more than a 
wreck ; her rigging and yards were a wilder- 
ness of broken spars and ropes ; her canvas 
was in shreds and two flags had been shot 
away. Half her guns were dismounted and 
out of action, and forty of her crew were 
killed or disabled when at last she struck. 

Ethan was with Captain Jones when he 
boarded the prize ; when the prisoners were 
lined up for inspection they were bitterly 
disappointed to And that the Lascar was 
not among them. While Captain Jones 
was giving his attention to the repairing of 
the worst damages and the care of the wounded 
Ethan questioned the boatswain’s mate of the 
defeated ship. 

“ A blackamoor, eh,” said the man, thought- 
fully. “ Now let me see ! Oh, yes ! I re- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 229 

member. He was taken on board when we 
stopped in the harbor near St. Mary's Isle not 
so long ago. We kept him safely guarded 
and ironed, sir, for it was said that he was an 
important prisoner ; but on our second day at 
Carrickfergus he gave us the slip, somehow, 
and none of us have seen anything of him 
since.” 


CHAPTER XVII 


THE SECRET AGENT ONCE MORE 

Lieutenant Simpson, as first officer of the 
Ranger, was placed in command of the Drake, 
and that vessel was taken in tow and the 
American man-of-war sailed in quest of more 
prizes along the Irish coast and then toward 
Brest. 

Sighting a sail, one day. Captain Jones cut 
the Drake loose after instructing his first 
officer to make the best of his way into Brest. 
But Simpson, true to his instincts, changed 
his course to southward and Paul Jones was 
compelled to give up the pursuit of several 
promising prizes in order that he might come 
up with the captured frigate. 

Incensed beyond measure by the insolence 
of Simpson, he placed the man under arrest, 
and the command of the Drake was given to 
Lieutenant Hall, who finally took her into 
port. 

When they reached France once more they 

230 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 231 

discovered that a treaty of alliance between 
the colonies and that kingdom had been 
signed. The American ministers had been re- 
ceived at the French court ; the French am- 
bassador had left London, and the English en- 
voy, Lord Stormont, had departed from France. 
War was on between these two great European 
powers, and in the heat of that great struggle 
the colonies at last had a chance to be free. 

Once again Paul Jones, Ethan Carlyle and 
Longsword rode to Paris to consult with Dr. 
Franklin. They were warmly greeted by the 
sage, and he listened to their experiences with 
interest and appreciation. 

“ Captain Jones,^’ he said at the conclusion, 
‘‘ there is nothing in the gift of your country 
too great for your deserving. In the name of 
the colonies, I thank you.” 

I suppose,” remarked Ethan, after a time, 
“ that the lost dispatch is now valueless, seeing 
that the alliance has already been accom- 
plished.” 

On the contrary,” said Dr. Franklin, “ it 
is now more important that it should be re- 
covered than ever. I have communicated 
with Congress, and a duplicate of the dispatch 


232 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

has been sent me ; it was by means of its con- 
tents that this treaty has been effected. But 
were the facts contained in the dispatch to 
come, even now, under the eyes of Lord North, 
such pressure would be brought upon France 
that she would drop all connection with us at 
once and again make a peace with England. 
Indeed, the fact that the information is in the 
way of being discovered, were the French 
aware of it, might be fatal. The dispatch 
must be recovered at all hazards.’^ 

As they sat in their lodgings that night 
Ethan told Longsword of this : and the Irish 
dragoon wrinkled his brow and looked in- 
finitely wise. 

Politics,^’ remarked he, sagely, ^^is a great 
thing, faith. Sure the statesmen are always 
burrowing under the ground and cutting it 
away from beneath each others^ feet. It 
wouldn’t surprise me if the loss of this dis- 
patch should bring about the recall of the 
French fleets that have sailed for America, 
and the ruin of the hopes for liberty.” 

Don’t say that, Longsword,” said Ethan, 
a pained look in his eyes. “ I hate to even 
think of such a thing.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 233 

“If we could only come upon the bla'guard 
Lascar we might gain something by it. Oh, 
but it’s him that’s the fox ; sure nobody can 
hold him, it seems.” 

“ The fact that the Earl of Selkirk went 
away upon a journey soon after his interview 
with the Lascar troubles me,” said Ethan. 
“ It looks as though he had learned something 
of the paper and had set out to try to gain 
possession of it.” 

“ True for ye, and it seems to me that Paris, 
somehow, is the place he would come for it.” 

“ Paris ! And why ? ” 

“ Sure, I don’t know. But it presents itself 
to me that way. Master Ethan.” 

“ Perhaps you may be right. This man 
Pochard is here, and it would not be at all 
surprising if he knew something of the 
matter.” 

“ Suppose,” suggested Longsword after a 
pause, “ that we pay a visit to this gentleman 
in the Rue Constantine ? ” 

“ An excellent idea,” cried Ethan. “ And 
we will put it into operation at once.” 

They put on their heaviest clothing, for the 
night was a cold one in February, and set 


234 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

forth. The hard frosty ground rang beneath 
their feet as they trudged along the rather 
gloomy streets. Turning into the Rue Con- 
stantine they had no trouble in finding the 
house of M. Fochard. The same little man in 
the spectacles and with the shining bald head 
opened the door upon the chain and looked 
out at them. Recognizing them at a single 
glance he cried : 

Oh, you rogues, so you have returned. A 
very nice trick that was to play upon an old 
clerk, was it not ? Shame ! I almost lost my 
place because of you. But you will not fool 
me again, no, no ! ” 

Is M. Fochard within ? asked Ethan. 

“ He is not, and would not see you if he 
were ! You are rogues, monsieurs ; and we 
have nothing to do with such here I And 
with that, he clapped the door in their faces 
and left them standing in the darkness and 
cold. 

The old fellow seems angry,” chuckled 
Longsword. “ I suppose his employer hauled 
him over the coals for letting us in that 
night.” 

‘'There is no use in our trying again to- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 235 

night at any rate,” said Ethan. Are you 
cold, Shamus? ” he continued after they had 
turned away and retraced their steps along the 
Rue Constantine. 

‘‘ I am, faith ! ” answered the Irish soldier. 

“ There is a bright, clean looking coffee 
house across the way. Suppose we step in 
and take the chill off with some coffee and a 
little snack — say a buttered roll or something 
of that sort.” 

“ A very thoughtful suggestion. Sure, 
nothing would please me better.” 

They crossed the street and entered the coffee 
house. Each had a cutlass hanging from his 
belt, and their foreign air at once attracted the 
attention of the people in the place. But 
they sought out a small table at the far end of 
the room and seating themselves quietly or- 
dered and sipped their coffee and nibbled at 
the white rolls that were brought with it. 

A very respectable looking place,” said 
Longsword as his eyes roved about, examining 
its patrons. 

Yes,” answered Ethan. And the coffee 
is excellent.” 

As they talked in low tones upon various 


236 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

topics, the door opened and three men entered 
the room. One of them was queerly huddled 
up in a huge cloak ; the others were lowering 
looking fellows, apparently of the class of cut- 
purses or bravos which infested the city at 
that time. They took seats at a side table 
near the door. 

There are three bla’guards, or I never saw 
any,” declared Longs word to Ethan as he 
looked at the newcomers. Sure and ye can 
see villainy written all over them.” 

They are not very prepossessing looking 
persons at all events,” admitted Ethan. He 
went on sipping his coffee for a time and then 
leaning toward his companion he said in a low 
tone, “ They are watching us.” 

No ! ” exclaimed Longsword, glaring at the 

trio. 

Don't stare so at them. Yes ; it's true. 
The man in the cloak seems to be some one in 
authority ; he pointed us out as soon as they 
came in ; they have been furtively eyeing us 
ever since.” 

“I wonder why?” said Longsword, puz- 
zled. 

I couldn't say. Perhaps because we are 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 237 

Americans. IVe noticed that that causes the 
French people to stare always, as we pass 
along the street.’^ 

The young American and his companion 
watched the three closely while pretending to 
inspect the room. The conversation of the 
men was carried on in a very low tone ; their 
gestures were guarded ; their whole manner 
was secret ; and while they ate sparingly of 
the food placed before them they never took 
their eyes, so it seemed, from Ethan and 
Longsword. While deep in the observation 
of all this Ethan was surprised to hear a quiet 
voice say, almost in his ear : 

“ Our friends by the door seem like most 
peculiar people.’’ 

Ethan turned quickly, for the voice had a 
strangely familiar sound ; and to his great 
astonishment he found himself looking into 
the smiling face of Monsieur Fochard. Long- 
sword was equally astonished ; the language 
was French and so of course he did not under- 
stand what the man said ; but he recognized 
the features of the secret agent instantly. The 
man saw this and smiled and nodded. 

“ I had not thought,” said he to Ethan, to 


238 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

see you again so soon. I fancied, monsieur, 
that you would be at St. Mary’s Isle, awaiting 
the coming of Siki, the Lascar.” 

Ethan fancied that he detected a chuckle in 
the man’s voice — a chuckle of intense satis- 
faction. But he made no reply and the agent 
went on : 

“ I forgive you for the deception which you 
allowed me to practice upon myself that night 
when you came to my house. It was a clever 
ruse, monsieur, and most remarkable for a boy 
of your years. My best man could scarcely 
excel it.” 

Ethan laughed. 

You do me too much honor, M. Pochard. 
It was chance that took me to your house, and 
chance that carried the matter on.” 

“ Very modest — very commendable,” said 
the other with a wave of his hand. But I 
prefer to believe that it was a set plan ; it 
would not do for Pochard to admit that he 
was outwitted by blind chance.” 

He had been sitting sipping his black coffee 
at a table directly behind ; now he dragged 
his chair forward to theirs and sat twirling 
the heavy seals upon his watch guard. He 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 239 

spent a few moments in silent contemplation 
of both ; then he asked : 

Would it be too much if I inquired 
how you learned that Siki had returned to 
Paris ? ’’ 

I did not know that he had/’ returned 
Ethan. 

The secret agent regarded him with a 
smile. 

“ My dear fellow/’ said he stretching his 
trim silk stockinged legs beneath the table, 
“ how can you say that when the man sits 
before you ? ” 

As he spoke he made a gesture toward the 
three men at the door ; Ethan glanced at the 
man in the cloak ; he caught sight of a dark, 
long-fingered subtle looking hand which was 
thrust from beneath it. It was true ; this man 
must be the Lascar. 

You must not think to deceive me again, 
young gentleman,” said Fochard. He re- 
arranged his elaborate shirt frill and the huge 
ruffles of lace which he wore at his wrists, and 
smiled. “ There sits Siki, bravely before us,” 
he continued. “ But tell me what you think 
of the other two.” 


240 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“ They look to me like rascals/' answered 
Ethan, promptly, 

“ Ah ! " and the secret agent seemed greatly 
interested. “ You have studied physiognomy 
then.” 

But Ethan shook his head. 

“ Ah ! that is a pity ! The study of the 
human countenance is a great and vital thing ; 
all men, especially those engaged in duties 
that bring them into contact with the motives 
and secret doings of other men should study 
this grand science.” 

He seemed to be upon a subject which in- 
terested him greatly, and continued : 

“ By it we are forearmed, safeguarded. 
We at once know the tendencies of strangers, 
and so it saves us many disasters in our af- 
fairs ; for those whom this philosophy warns 
us against we do not trust.” 

“ I suppose not,” answered Ethan, vaguely. 

It is a matter of great ease,” went on the 
man, crossing his silk stockinged legs and 
smoothing his ruffles with one many-ringed 
hand, “ to discover the tendencies of our 
friends there at the door, for they carry their 
vocations plainly writ upon their faces. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 241 

Note the leaner of the two Frenchmen — the 
pointed and protruding jaw, the outstanding 
ears, the eyes set close together, the low brow, 
the nose slightly hooked. It is a counte- 
nance whose message is unmistakable. To one 
who knows it cries out ceaselessly — beware, 
beware !” 

Ethan nodded ; science or no science he 
knew that the stranger spoke the truth. 

The other face,’’ continued Fochard, ‘‘ is 
of a decidedly lower type. Note the huge 
jaw, the small round head set upon the great 
torso, with scarcely the sign of a neck. This 
is a common sort of ruffian — one who will 
make much noise about his wrong-doing and 
be easily caught.” 

Ethan looked at the secret agent curiously ; 
somehow he had the impression that the 
man’s talk was for the purpose of gaining 
time ; also that he desired the three at the 
table near the door to see them, apparentl}^, 
earnestly engaged together. Drawing a large 
silver snuff-box from his waistcoat pocket 
Fochard took a dainty pinch and then offered 
it to Ethan and Longsword in turn. Upon 
their refusing he smiled and delicately ap- 


242 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

plied the snuff to his nostrils ; then he dusted 
the fallen grains from his clothing and put 
the box away. 

“ I think/’ said Ethan, “ that you must 
have encountered these men before to know 
their characteristics so well. A single glance 
at the face does not tell so much.” 

The Frenchman gestured his admiration of 
this remark, and his jeweled hands sparkled 
in the candle-light. 

You Americans are keen and most prac- 
tical,” he said. And for that reason,” he 
went on, bending toward Ethan, “ I am going 
to do something for you to-night which will 
surprise you much — and out of sheer admira- 
tion of your nation.” 

Indeed.” 

“ I have here a ring,” and Fochard drew 
from his finger a sparkling circlet and held it 
up so that the light would fall upon it. I 
am going to give it to you.” 

He noted the lad’s look of surprise, and 
added with a smile : 

It is not because of the ring itself — oh, no. 
But the person who stands, with this ring 
upon the third finger of his right hand and 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 243 

with the hand held so, at the great gate of 
Versailles at ten in the morning, will receive 
— a packet. Do you understand? 

A packet,’’ Ethan shot a keen glance at 
the man. 

Exactly — a packet sealed with great 
splotches of red wax.” 

Ah ! ” The boy drew in a deep breath, 
and his eyes narrowed and began to burn. 

Ten thousand pounds is a great sum,” and 
Fochard shrugged his fat shoulders. ‘‘ But I 
am a Frenchman, and all Frenchmen love 
the Americans. For this reason I forego all 
hope of the profit that a great labor should 
bring me.” He grasped Ethan by the right 
wrist and placed the ring upon his finger. 
As he did so the men at the far table quietly 
arose and drew nearer, seating themselves at 
another table. Their watchful eyes never lost 
a movement of Fochard ’s or Ethan’s ; their 
heads were bent in an effort to hear what was 
being said. 

“ So,” said Fochard, in a low tone, that is 
done, monsieur, and I am pleased.” 

‘‘ Is this packet,” demanded Ethan eagerly, 
“ what I suppose it is? ” 


244 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“ It is,” replied Fochard in a somewhat 
louder tone. “ But guard the ring carefully ; 
for it alone will bring you what you desire.” 

And once more he repeated his instructions 
to the boy. The three listening men drank 
in his words eagerly, and when he had fin- 
ished they paid their score and went out. 

‘‘ They overheard what you said,” spoke 
Ethan. 

“ I know it,” smiled Fochard. ‘‘ Since the 
time when I caught the Lascar in his attempt 
to leave France with the dispatch, he has been 
hounding me.” 

“ But,” said Ethan, ‘‘ if you secured it from 
him why did he go to St. Mary’s Isle to see 
the Earl of Selkirk?” 

“ To induce that gentleman to purchase the 
paper. But now that the time has come, I’d 
rather see libert}" result than my own enrich- 
ment. If the American government should 
see its way clear to rewarding me, why, well 
and good, if not it will not matter much. 
This resolution has angered the Lascar, for he 
hoped to share in the English gold.” 

I see,” said Ethan. ‘‘ But Danvers did 
not know of this compact between you.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 245 

Indeed no,” smiled Pochard. ** I gave 
him to understand that Siki was safely out of 
France with the papers and — ahem — that you 
assisted him.” 

‘‘ So he said,” replied the young American. 

“ And now,” said Pochard, arising, I will 
be going. You will not fail to bring these 
matters to the attention of Dr. Franklin at 
once, I trust. As things are,” with a most 
expressive wave of the hand, “ I cannot act 
for myself. It would be misconstrued — for it 
is generally supposed that Pochard works 
only for pay. Good-evening.” 

He bowed to both Ethan and Longsword, 
then walked gravely through the lines of 
small tables and departed. Ethan at once in- 
formed Longsword of all that had been said ; 
and the latter shook his head, the grim ex- 
pression of his face increasing. 

I don^t like it,” declared the Irishman, 
decidedly. “ And I don’t trust the man.” 

“ But it seems possible,” protested Ethan. 

The French are almost mad with admiration 
of the Americans just now, and a man may 
do such a thing in his enthusiasm for a 
cause.” 


246 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“ But not a man like that, faith ! He’s as 
cold blooded as a fish. He has some sort of a 
plot behind all this, mark my words.” 

“ But what can it be? ” asked the lad. 

The dragoon shook his head again. I 
don’t know,” he answered. “ But time will 
tell, I think.” 

They left the coffee house ; and as they 
stepped into the shadows of the Rue Con- 
stantine, Ethan noticed his companion pull 
his scabbard about so that his cutlass would be 
ready at his hand. 

What’s that for ? ” he asked, in surprise. 

It’s always good to have your blade handy 
on a dark night,” said Longs word, briefly. 

Ethan made no reply, and so they continued 
on their way in silence for a time. Finally 
the lad spoke. 

“ I suppose it would have been better had 
we given an alarm and had the Lascar seized 
by the authorities,” said he. 

And have the whole matter of the dis- 
patch come out,” cried the Irish soldier. 

That would never do. Remember what 
Dr. Franklin said.” 

The way to their lodgings was narrow and 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 247 

dark ; the hour was still fairly early, but there 
were very few people abroad. As they pro- 
ceeded along at a smart pace they caught a 
short, sharp whistle from directly ahead ; and 
immediately it was repeated from behind. 
Longsword grasped the lad’s arm tightly. 

It sounded very much like a signal of 
some sort,” said Ethan coolly. He cast a long 
look into the darkness as he spoke ; a shadow 
seemed to move silently away and melt into 
the murk ; the soft patter of guarded footsteps 
fell upon their ears, and then all was still. 

“We are being followed,” breathed Long- 
sw’ord, his strong hand upon the hilt of his 
hanger. “ And it’s all because of that rascal 
Pochard, I’ll be bound.” 

“ Perhaps,” said Ethan soberly. 

Once more they started on their way ; all 
was soundless save for the ring of their own 
footsteps upon the flags ; but suddenly they 
turned a sharp corner, and caught sight of 
another skulking shadow flitting before them 
in the gloom ; and as they paused, the patter 
of mufiled feet fell softly behind them. 

“ We are in for it,” said Ethan Carlyle, as 
he quietly plucked his cutlass from its scab- 


248 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

bard. I wonder how many there are of 
them.” 

Let them come from the front and it 
makes no differ,” said Longs word, blade in 
hand. “ Faith, Master Ethan, it’s meself that 
loves a bit of a fight now and then, but I like 
a little daylight along wid it by choice.” 

Ethan drew the dragoon into an open arch- 
way, and here they awaited developments. A 
number of dark figures stole through the 
shadows and gathered directly opposite. 

‘‘ There they are, beneath the arch,” Ethan 
heard a voice say in French. Now then, 
men, upon them in a body. I must have that 
ring.” 

The voice was that of the Lascar; Ethan 
recognized its thin tones at once. As the man 
spoke there came the clear bold ring of ad- 
vancing footsteps upon the frosty ground. 

‘‘ There is some one coming,” said a second 
voice. 

“ Make haste ! ” cried the Lascar, “ or we 
will be too late ! ” 

A quick rush of feet followed this. 

“ Strike hard ! ” breathed Longs word 
through his set teeth. His cutlass swung 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 249 

through the air with a “ swish ” and the fore- 
most man fell back with a howl of agony. 
Ethan’s blade hissed downward in a favorite 
stroke and another of the party was out of the 
fight with a slash across the shoulder. But 
the remainder closed in. They were armed 
with swords, knives and heavy bludgeons ; 
but the deftly played cutlasses of the two 
master swordsmen seemed to threaten all at 
once, and though the ruffians struck madly 
and often, the sharp points were ever in their 
faces, and the keen edges slashed and bit at 
them with fury. 

A pistol shot rang out sharply. Ethan 
felt a sudden scorching line run across his 
forehead ; then a gush of blood almost blinded 
him. 

“ I’m hit,” he said to Longsword, as he 
strove to dash the blood from his eyes. 

This seemed to turn the grim Irelander into 
a demon. Ethan, dazed by the shot, had sunk 
upon one knee ; the dragoon stood over him 
playing his weapon with the speed of light 
and the rage of a Berserker. But even his 
great skill and matchless endurance would not 
have served to beat the crowd of ruffians off ; 


250 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

they were closing about him in a circle and 
about beating him down when a sudden gleam 
of light shot into the archway, and a stern 
voice called : 

“ What, you rascals ! At them, men.” 

Ethan’s dazed eyes caught one glimpse of 
the evil faces as the rays of a flaring torch lit 
them up. The circle broke at once and the 
men turned swiftly ; the next instant they were 
fighting frantically against a new sword and a 
brace of heavy clubs in the hands of two stout 
porters. 

With a gasp of delight Ethan saw that the 
new swordsman was Paul Jones ; then all 
grew suddenly dark, and he pitched forward 
and fell upon his face. 


CHAPTER XVIII 


THE ROAD TO BREST 

The wound in Ethan Carlyle's head was not 
a very severe one ; so next day he was about, 
looking a trifle pale, and with a bandage 
about his brow, but almost as well as ever. 

When he came down from his room he 
found Longsword awaiting him. 

How are ye ? " asked the dragoon 
anxiously. 

Just a little hazy in the head," answered 
Ethan, but that will pass in a few hours." 

Could ye stand a bit of news if it were 
broken to ye gently ? " 

I think so." 

'‘Well, among those who were wounded in 
the flght last night was Siki." 

“ Ah ! " 

“ We have him here. We carried him on 
the same litter as yourself. He is willing to 
talk, so the captain says. They are only wait- 
ing for you." 

251 


252 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 
Take me to him.” 

Longsword promptly led the way into a 
room off that of Captain Jones\ They found 
that officer sitting at a table engaged in some 
correspondence ; upon a couch was the lean 
form of the Lascar ; his dark face was drawn 
with pain and his eyes roved about restlessly. 
Captain Jones sprang up as Ethan and the 
dragoon entered. 

Fm delighted,” he said, grasping the lad’s 
hand. “ You seemed to be resting so easily 
during the night, though, that I felt sure you 
would be all right by morning.” 

“ Thank you,” said Ethan. Then nodding 
toward the Lascar he continued, And so we 
took a prisoner ? ” 

“Yes,” smiled the officer, “and rather an 
important one, too ; he will tell you many 
things that will surprise you.” 

Siki raised himself upon one elbow and 
broke in. 

“ But, what will be the good if you don’t 
act? You must hurry. The dispatch will 
be in England in two days if the wind is 
good.” 

“ What do you mean ? ” asked Ethan. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 253 

I mean that Pochard is even now prepar- 
ing to cross the channel to deliver the papers 
to Danvers.’’ 

The man spoke English now ; and upon 
hearing his words Longs word asked quickly : 

“ Why did ye attack us last night ? ” 

To get the ring. It was not until I was 
brought here that I saw what a cunning trick 
that rascal played upon me. He had the dis- 
patch in his pocket ; he feared that we meant 
to attack him ; so he planned this thing of the 
ring on the moment, and so threw me off the 
right track. While my men and I were fol- 
lowing you, he was, maybe, on the way to 
Brest.” 

Just as I thought, sure ! ” exclaimed Long- 
sword. He used us as decoys to draw off the 
hounds when they were closing in on himself.” 

“ What a ready rascal,” cried Ethan, forced 
to admiration of the man’s wit. Then turn- 
ing to the Lascar he continued : 

“ You are sure he had the dispatch ? ” 

** I am. He took it from me at Nantes as I 
was about to leave the country some time 
ago.” 

Did he send you to the Earl of Selkirk ? ” 


254 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

He did. He promised me a share if the 
earl would buy the papers for the crown.’’ 

“ Why did he not deal with the English 
government himself? ” 

The war has made him afraid. He 
wanted a go-between. But when I returned I 
found that he was playing me false. He is to 
take ship at Brest and meet Danvers at Ply- 
mouth with the dispatch. Pochard is to get 
the ten thousand pounds, and Danvers is to 
get all the credit.” 

“ It would seem,” said Captain Jones, ‘‘ that 
this man has but one object in view — and that 
is his own profit. He keeps faith with no 
one.” 

No,” cried the Lascar, clinching his fist 
and setting his strong white teeth, he plays 
false with all — with you, with Danvers — with 
me. But I will be revenged ! If you start in 
pursuit at once you will overtake him on the 
way to Brest or on the sea ; and the dispatch 
will be your own once more.” 

They talked for some little time, then the 
three went into another I'oom and consulted. 

“ I cannot leave Paris at this time,” said the 
captain, “ but as the man seems to be speak- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 255 

ing the truth, now, you two might act upon 
his suggestion. A couple of fast horses would 
take you to Brest in little time, and you may 
be able to prevent the man’s escape.” 

But should he reach Brest before us — 
if he gets to sea — we cannot follow him.” 

Captain Jones drew out a wallet and took 
from it a number of French bills of exchange. 

“ This,” said he, “ will secure a vessel. If 
it is not sufficient say that I will make up the 
balance.” 

Ethan hesitated, but at length took the 
bills, and shook the officer by the hand. 

This is generous of you ; and you may de- 
pend upon me to do my best,” he said. 

Within an hour himself and Longsword 
were in the saddle and riding along the road 
toward Brest. 

Like as not he took a carriage,” said the 
dragoon : these well-fed gentlemen like 

Monsieur Fochard don’t care much about 
riding.” 

Perhaps the story told us by the Lascar is 
not true,” suggested Ethan, who still felt most 
doubtful upon this point. 

** Maybe not. But it won’t be long before 


256 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

we satisfy ourselves upon that point. We’ll 
not ride many miles before we know who is 
ahead of us ; innkeepers have good memories 
if they are paid for it.” 

In this Longs word was right. They paused 
for food at a small hostelry about noon, and 
Ethan questioned the landlord. 

“ A traveler ? Oh, yes, monsieur, there 
have been many pass by to-day and yesterday. 
You are trying to overtake a friend, I sup- 
pose? It will be difficult, because all who 
went by seemed in a very great hurry, and 
scarce had time to spend a sou even. But 
what sort of a man is he whom you ride after ? 
Stout ? Ah ! And with a great white frill 
and many seals ? I have him. He passed 
early this morning in a carriage with pos- 
tilions ; and he drove very fast after he had 
had his breakfast.” 

This news made them increase the pace of 
their nags along the road. 

“ He will probably get fresh horses at given 
points along the road,” said Ethan, “ so he 
will have that advantage of us.” 

Their mounts were big-boned, lean beasts 
with plenty of bottom and great willingness ; 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 257 

the miles flowed by under their hoofs ; but 
still no indication of their overtaking the car- 
riage of the secret agent. It was late in the 
afternoon when they entered a long stretch of 
road bordered by thick woods upon each side ; 
the trees were tall and bare of leaves ; their 
frost-dry branches swung and rattled in the 
wind. They had met no person or come upon 
no human habitation for a long time ; and 
now were astonished to hear a hearty, rollick- 
ing sort of a voice roaring out : 

‘‘ ^ Oh, the French are on the sea,^ says the Shan Van 
Vogh; 

^The French are on the sea,^ says the Shan Van 
Vogh; 

^Oh, the French are in the bay, they’ll be here 
without delay. 

And the Orange will decay,’ says the Shan Van 
Vogh.” 

Hurro,” cried Longsword in delight. 
“ Faith, that’s a countryman of my own. I’ll 
go bail.” 

There can be little doubt of that,” said 
Ethan smiling. “ And a hearty, joyful blade 
he must be, judging from his voice.” 


258 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Rounding a bend in the road they overtook 
a strongly built young man with a great shock 
of yellow hair and the bluest of blue eyes ; he 
bestrode a tall gray horse ; and with his head 
thrown back he trolled forth his song. 

‘‘ The top of the morning to you/’ saluted 
Longs word. 

The song was checked so suddenly that it 
seemed as though the yellow haired young 
man had bitten it off short. He gazed at the 
dragoon in astonishment. 

What’s that?” demanded he. 

‘‘ The top of the morning to ye,” repeated 
Longsword, with a smile. 

With a whoop of delight the stranger 
wheeled his gray horse alongside the other 
and seized his hand in a powerful grip. 

“ An Irishman, be the hooky ! ” shouted he. 
“ Faith, then, I’m as glad to see ye as I would 
be to see me own mother, and I haven’t laid 
eyes on her these many years.” 

Longsword seemed equally pleased, and his 
hand grip was fully as warm as that of the 
other. 

“ It was like a dream to hear the old Shan 
Van Vogh upon a lonely French road, so far 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 259 

away from home,” he said. “ And faith it 
warmed the heart of me, so it did.” 

They exchanged some remarks in the Erse 
tongue ; then Longs word turned to Ethan. 

'' This,” said he formally, is Rory McHale, 
captain of the lugger, Erin, now lying at 
Brest.” Then, speaking to McHale, he went 
on : And this is Mr. Ethan Carlyle, in 
the service of the Confederated Colonies of 
America.” 

The two thus introduced shook hands, and 
McHale said : 

Faith, sir, the tide have turned at last ; 
ye'll bate the English, so ye will ; for ye have 
the French with ye now, and that is all ye 
needed.” 

I trust that you are right,” said the lad. 
** England will now be forced to divide her 
attention between the Colonies and France ; 
and so our chances will be increased.” 

“ Are ye riding to Brest, may I ask ? ” in- 
quired the Irishman. 

We are,” answered Ethan. 

“ So am I ; and if it’s not pushing meself 
for’ard too much I’ll be glad to ride in your 
company, sir.” 


26 o with JOHN PAUL JONES 


You are very welcome, Captain McHale. 
You are going to join your vessel, I suppose.” 

“ I am. She is all ready for another cruise, 
and I’ve been to Paris to see her owners and 
get instructions.” 

You are in the merchant service, then ? ” 

“ Not a bit of it. The Erin is a privateer, 
faith, and as smart a little vessel as ever cut 
the water.” 

“ Ah, indeed.” 

She’s French built and Irish manned,” 
continued Captain McHale. “ And though I 
do say it meself, she’s done more damage to 
the Saxon than any other craft of her tonnage 
that ever slipped out to sea by the light of 
the stars.” 

Longsword had been examining the young 
sailor carefully while he talked to Ethan. 
Now he asked : 

Are ye of the west of Ireland, Captain 
McHale?” 

I am, sure,” answered the other. 

I thought so. When ye see an Irishman 
wid straw colored hair and blue eyes he’s 
always a sailor. There’s some of the blood of 
the old Vikings in ye all. King Brian beat 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 261 


the Danes at Clontarf, but he didn't drive 
them all out of the land. And if ye went 
back far enough, McHale, I'll go bail ye'd find 
your ancestors wid winged helmets on the 
heads of them and beards a foot long." 

The yellow haired man laughed. 

Maybe so, "said he. “ I'll not be denyingit." 

After they had ridden together for some 
minutes, Ethan asked : 

“ Have you seen anything of a carriage on 
the road, Captain McHale ? " 

“ I have. One passed me some hours ago. 
A fat Frenchman in it demanded the road of 
me and flew into a rage because I would not 
leap me horse into a ditch to accommodate 
him. He seemed to be in a great hurry, so 
he did." 

Our man," said Ethan to Longsword. 

“ No doubt of it," answered the dragoon. 

The seaman looked from one to the other 
questioningly. 

Ye are wanting this gentleman, then?" 
asked he. 

*'We are," said Longsword. ^^And we're 
wanting him more than we ever wanted any- 
thing in our lives before." 


262 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


You may come up wid him.” 

“ It’s not likely, if he is hours ahead of us.” 

“ One of his horses had a limp ; I think it 
had cast a shoe. This was the real cause 
of the Frenchman’s anger, I think.” The 
speaker looked from one to the other once 
more. “ Does he know that ye are after him, 
may I ask ? ” 

“ He may suspect. But he is not sure.” 

“ Well, he’s running no risks, faith, and is 
making the best of his time on the road.” 

Night came on and they put up at a quiet 
little place upon the edge of the forest through 
which they had been passing. 

“ Yes,” replied the landlord to Ethan’s 
question, a stout gentleman passed in a car- 
riage some time ago. He was very angry be- 
cause I had no horse to give him. One of his 
was lame, I think, and when he drove off, he 
went at a very slow pace.” 

We’ll overtake him in the morning,” said 
Longsword in English. If his horse was as 
badly lamed as all that he’ll be forced to put 
up before he reaches the next town where he 
can get relays.” 

“ We will be on the road by daylight,” said 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 263 

the young American. If our horses could 
stand it I’d be in favor of pressing on to- 
night.” 

Next morning while the pale moon was 
still lighting up the snowy countryside they 
were stirring; a quick breakfast and then 
they climbed into their saddles and were 
off. 

'‘I’m not so comfortable upon the quarter- 
deck of a horse as I am upon the Erin,” said 
Captain McHale as they rode along. 

“ And it’s a long distance to Brest, so it is,” 
said Longs word. 

The moon grew paler and the few stars dis- 
appeared before the touch of dawn ; some 
distance along the road they caught a gleam 
of a fire. 

“ Some wayfarers who had not the money 
for a bed,” said Ethan. “ It must have been 
a cold night, indeed, in the open air.” 

It was a matter of five or more miles from 
the inn ; the fire seemed to burn close by the 
roadside, and in the red glare a number of 
people could be seen sitting beside it. Sud- 
denly Ethan pulled up, and uttered a smoth- 
ered cry of surprise. 


264 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“ Look/’ said he. ‘‘ There upon the other 
side of the road.” 

They followed the direction of his out- 
stretched finger, and saw a carriage drawn up, 
with horses tied up by the bridles behind it. 

“ Pochard ! ” exclaimed Longsword exult- 
antly. 

‘‘ It can be no one else,” said Ethan. 

“ It’s the carriage that I spoke to ye of, I 
feel sure,” said Captain McHale. '' The lame 
horse must have broken down entirely at this 
point.” 

Ethan put his horse into a run and the 
others followed his example. When they 
reached the fire they halted ; and with his 
hand upon the butt of a pistol, Ethan cried 
out : 

Stand forth. Monsieur Pochard. We have 
a small matter of business with you.” 

One of the men arose to his feet and touched 
his hat, tremblingly. 

'‘We are postilions, sir, waiting for day- 
light. The brown horse, there, cast a shoe 
and went lame. Monsieur Pochard took one 
of the other horses and rode on to the next 
town in the night, as he could not wait for us.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 265 

‘‘ How far is it to the next town ? ’’ asked 
Ethan. 

About eight miles, monsieur.’^ 

Ethan wheeled his horse into the middle of 
the road once more. 

“ Come on,” he called. “ He may be de- 
layed in getting a carriage. We have a chance 
of overtaking him yet.” 

And away they dashed, with loose reins, 
down the frosty road. 


CHAPTER XIX 


HOW THE ERIN PUT TO SEA 

However, they did not overtake him. 
Fochard had secured a fresh equipage at the 
next town, and at once resumed his journey. 

He must be at least five hours ahead of us,” 
said Ethan, as they stood at the heads of their 
panting horses after receiving this news. 

“Yes,” agreed Longs word. “ But Brest is 
still a long way off, and many accidents may 
happen on the road.” 

They mounted once more and set off. All 
day they heard reports from hostlers and 
country people of the progress of the secret 
agent toward the seaport. But they had not, 
apparently, gained upon him in the least 
when night overtook them. Next morning 
they secured fresh horses, as their own were 
stiff with the hard work of the two preceding 
days ; and then the chase was resumed. How- 
ever, Fochard traveled like the light ; the 
housetops of Brest were in sight and still they 
had not sighted him. 

266 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 267 

There is small chance of getting any infor- 
mation of his movements after we get into the 
town,’^ said Ethan, disheartened. 

DonT lose hope,” said Longsword. “ IPs 
the unexpected that happens. Master Ethan.” 

You are right, sure,” said Captain McHale. 
“ Many^s the time things looked black enough 
wid me ; and then like a flash they’ve changed 
when I least expected it.” 

And so it proved in this case. They had 
scarcely entered Brest when a voice cried out 
from a shop door, 

Ah, monsieur rides hard to-day.” 

The Irish sailor turned toward the shop, and 
his face took on a broad grin as he caught 
sight of the fat French chandler who had 
spoken. 

“ Monsieur Dubois, good-day,” he cried. 

Yes, we ride hard because our business is 
urgent.” 

The chandler elevated his plump hands. 

“ Oh, this war ! ” he exclaimed, ** it makes 
all hurry. Did not a carriage almost run 
down my eldest son an hour ago, because its 
passenger was in a very great hurry to see 
La Tour.” 


268 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


McHale pulled in his horse, sharply, as did 
Ethan. 

La Tour — a carriage ! he ejaculated. 
“ Did you notice the man, particularly? ’’ 

“ Indeed I did, monsieur, and made him 
give me two louis for the fright he gave me.” 

A stout man,” suggested Ethan, from 
Paris, by his look, with many seals on his 
watch-guard ? ” 

The same, monsieur,” answered the stout 
chandler, wonderingly. 

“ Come on,” said McHale, eagerly. To 
La Tour’s ; it’s not far from here.” 

Ethan and Longsword, who had also 
paused, put spurs to their horses after the 
sailor. 

Who is La Tour ? ” asked the young 
American. 

“ He is a shipping agent,” answered Mc- 
Hale. And the owner of some small ves- 
sels, too. If a man wanted a ship to embark 
on any questionable or desperate enterprise 
it is to this same La Tour he’d go, faith.” 

The office of Jean La Tour was near the 
water front, and was a dusty, cobwebbed, low- 
ceilinged place, indeed. La Tour was seated 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 269 

at a broad, flat, green-covered table, carefully 
docketing some items of his traffic in a book, 
when the three pulled up, threw themselves 
from their horses and came stamping in 
upon him. Upon hearing their business, he 
shrugged hi§ shoulders and spread his hands 
wdde. 

I am afraid that it is too late,” said he. 

The gentleman engaged the Montespan some 
days ago, by agent ; he paid me the balance 
of the charter money a short time ago — less 
than an hour, perhaps — and is now on his 
way out of the harbor for all I know.” 

Longsword, when Ethan translated the 
shipping-agent^s words, uttered a cry of anger. 

The fox is gone,” said he ; “ and he’s 
gone for good unless we can follow him to 
sea.” 

And that is the very thing that we will 
do,” cried Ethan, his face flushed with deter- 
mination. He turned to La Tour and said, 
“ We want a vessel, the swiftest at your com- 
mand, and we want it at once. Name your 
price.” 

Once more the agent shrugged his shoul- 
ders and spread out his hands. 


270 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Impossible/’ he said. “ I have not a ves- 
sel in port at this time that would be of any 
sort of service to you.” Then he added with 
a cheerful air of resignation, 

“It is most unfortunate, for I can see that 
you are very anxious to overtake this gentle- 
man. But I hardly think you can do so, for 
there is no other ship owner in Brest who 
would risk his vessels putting to sea at this 
time. The English are as thick as herrings in 
the channel.” 

“ No ship ! ” said Ethan, blankly. 

“ No, not one,” answered La Tour. 

“You are mistaken there,” spoke Captain 
McHale ; “ there is a small bit of a lugger wid 
eight four pounders in her and as much speed 
as can be found anywhere.” He turned to 
Ethan and continued, eagerly, “If ye want 
the Erin, Mister Carlyle, she’s at your service, 
and welcome.” 

Ethan wrung the speaker’s hand. 

“ Thank you,” said he. “ This is very good 
of you, indeed.” 

“ Don’t speak of it,” answered McHale. 
“ But to horse and let’s be off to where the lug- 
ger is tied up.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 271 

As they climbed into their saddles Long* 
sword asked, 

“ How soon can you be ready to put to sea ? 

“ The minute I put me foot upon the deck, 
my lads will be ready to cast off. The secret 
of the lugger’s success is in her always being 
ready.” 

A sharp quick gallop of a quarter of an hour 
brought them to the wharf where the Erin was 
moored. She was a trim looking three-master 
and the length of the yards showed that her 
spread of canvas would be immense for her 
tonnage. Ethan hurriedly made arrange- 
ments for the return of the horses to their 
owner, and then followed the two Irishmen 
on board the Erin. 

The lugger’s crew were stout, hardy looking 
young men, with the air of having braved 
danger many times and not fearing to look it 
in the face. True to Captain McHale’s word, 
they had cast off the lines, towed the vessel 
into the stream and had the sails drawing 
within a very short time after he came aboard. 

“ You are right,” said Ethan as he noted the 
little vessel’s progress with satisfaction. “ The 
Erin has speed.” 


272 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“ She sails like a hawk, sir, before the 
wind,” said her captain proudly. 

There were still some hours of daylight and 
every vessel they passed was carefully studied 
by McHale. 

I know the Montespan very well,” said he. 

There is a rake to her tall masts that I could 
recognize anywhere above the horizon.” 

But night came on and still there was no 
sign of the desired vessel. The lugger 
squared away for Plymouth, and morning 
found her cutting the choppy seas of the chan- 
nel, well upon her way. While the captain 
and his two passengers were at breakfast the 
lookout shouted : 

‘^Sail ho!” 

Instantly Captain McHale was upon deck, 
glass in hand. 

“ Where away ? ” he asked. 

“ Right ahead, sir.” 

The skipper of the privateer took a long, 
thirsty look, and then cried, delightedly, 

IPs the Montespan, by the gods of war I ” 

Ethan and Longsword each took a look at 
the chase through the glass. Then the former 
said. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 273 

“ How many hours is Plymouth off, with 
this breeze ? '' 

We should reach there by night if we were 
going there/^ answered the skipper. 

“ Do you think it is possible for the lugger 
to overtake the vessel ahead in that time ? ” 

“ The Erin, sir, can outsail the Montespan 
in any slant of the wind. We’ll overhaul her 
within five hours, if nothing happens, and 
you can talk to Monsieur Pochard about any 
matter of business you might have wid him, 
below in my cabin.” 

The steadiness with which the lugger hung 
upon the track of the Montespan attracted 
the attention of those on board that vessel be- 
fore long. A topsail was run up, and a jib 
set, which increased her speed greatly. Cap- 
tain McHale smiled, and his blue eyes 
twinkled. 

See to that, now, how bashful they are. 
Sure, sorra the bit do they want to become ac- 
quainted wid us.” 

The great, square canvases of the lugger 
were trimmed and hauled taut ; she heeled a 
little more, and the white spume that boiled 
in her wake showed an increase in her speed 


274 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

also. Mile after mile was covered ; the Mon- 
tespan constantly lifted higher and higher, 
until at length they could plainly see, with 
the naked eye, the people upon her decks. 
However, the lugger was not making the 
speed that her skipper expected of her, and he 
seemed vexed when the chase spread more 
canvas and began to slowly slip away. 

The lug sails were drenched with water to 
make them draw better ; this improved mat- 
ters, but not much, and the sun was low in 
the west, the gray coast of England lay ahead, 
and still the Montespan was beyond the reach 
of the Erin. 

Longsword, as he realized that night was 
about to close in and rob them of their prey, 
looked hungrily over the lugger’s tarpaulin- 
covered guns. 

“ A shot from one of those,” he said, “ might 
bring her to.” 

‘‘She is a French craft,” said Captain 
McHale, “ and I dare not try it.” 

“ Could ye not explain away the small mat- 
ter of a broken spar ? ” suggested the crafty 
Longsword. “ As you see, she flies no flag ; 
ye might be mistaken about her being a 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 275 

French vessel, after all. She may be English, 
and as a French privateer it is your duty 
to your owners to examine her near at 
hand.'’ 

The skipper ran his fingers through his 
yellow hair and grinned. 

Troth, then,” remarked he, there is a 
good deal in what ye say, Mister O’Moore ; 
and now that ye put it afore me I have a great 
mind to see what effect a ball would have on 
her. The Erin would catch her in the long 
run ; but night is coming, and the English 
coast is too near at hand.” 

He gave orders to his mate, who at once 
stripped one of the forward guns. The pow- 
der and shot had just been brought upon deck 
when Ethan suddenly cried to McHale : 

See, there ! What vessel is that? ” 

Upon the lee, a large ship was bearing down 
upon the Montespan and the pursuing lugger. 
All eyes upon the Erin had been centred 
upon the chase and had given no attention to 
anything else ; consequently, the appearance 
of the ship was something like magic to the 
lugger’s crew. 

She flies the British flag,” cried Long- 


276 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

sword. There’s ructions coming too, for she 
is stripping her decks for a fight.” 

A sudden rending roar came from the 
British ship’s bow, a red tongue of flame 
darted from a port and a haze of smoke curled 
upward. In answer the Montespan ran up 
the English flag ; but Captain McHale cried 
bravely : 

“No sailing under false colors for the Erin. 
We sink or swim with our own colors at the 
peak.” 

The French flag went up to the lugger’s 
mainmast a moment later, and with a swing of 
the wheel McHale headed her toward the coast. 

“ We’ll get shallow water further in,” said 
he, “ and some ugly looking rocks. A vessel 
of her draft will not venture in after us.” 

But the frigate seemed to give her attention 
to the Montespan ; the ensign did not appear 
to deceive her, for another shot rang out, and 
the French vessel’s fore topmast was carried 
away. Then another and another shot fol- 
lowed in quick succession ; and the Monte- 
span signaled her surrender, with her rudder 
shot away and a hole knocked in her hull 
just above the water line. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 277 

“ Good firing,’^ said Ethan, admiringly. 
Then he continued with a change of tone, 
And again the dispatch is lost to me.” 

He was standing by the after rail and watch- 
ing the beautiful handling of the frigate’s 
guns ; as he spoke he saw a boat pull away 
from her to the Montespan ; and then she 
turned her attention to the lugger. 

“ Are we out of range ? ” asked the young 
American of the skipper. 

“ We’ll know in a moment,” answered 
McHale, grimly. 

And so they did ; as the frigate swept 
around she let go her forward battery at the 
Erin and the shot shrilled above her in the 
dusk. But McHale held the little vessel upon 
her way ; night was all but upon them, and 
he hoped that shoal water and darkness would 
assist him to elude the enemy. The gunnery 
of the latter was not now so good ; she fired 
many times and did little or no damage; night 
had spread her bat-like wings above the waters 
when a last shot splintered the mizzen mast, 
and it fell in a tangle of rigging over the stern. 

^‘Take care,” roared Longsword to Ethan, 
who stood directly in its way. 


^78 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

But the warning came too late ; with a wild 
cry the lad was swept over the side into the 
sea ; the lugger went rushing by, having 
changed her course to down coast ; the lan- 
terns of the frigate could be seen gleaming for 
a time further out to sea. But at last these, 
too, disappeared and Ethan Carl^de was left to 
utter darkness, struggling with the waves. 


CHAPTER XX 


SHOWS HOW A SOLDIER CAME OUT OF MILL 
PRISON 

' It was fortunate for Ethan that he was a 
powerful swimmer, and at no great distance 
from the shore. He took the matter very 
coolly until he got his bearings ; then he 
struck out for the beach. The pull of the 
undertow made landing rather difficult, but 
after a long struggle he finally accomplished 
it. He had no fear of detection, and boldly 
presented himself at a fisherman’s cabin and 
asked permission to dry his clothes. 

The fisherman and his wife gladly took him 
in ; and they insisted upon providing him 
with supper and a bed. 

“ I know what it is to fall into the sea in 
the night,” said the man with a shake of his 
head. And I’ll not refuse an English lad 
like yourself any help I can give.” 

Ethan, of course, did not undeceive him ; 
to have told that he was an American would 
279 


28 o with JOHN PAUL JONES 


have meant imprisonment ; so he merely 
thanked the good people, and accepted their 
many little kindnesses without revealing his 
nationality. 

Next morning he discovered that he was 
but a half dozen miles from Plymouth ; so, 
after insisting that the fisher folks take an 
English gold piece which he happened to have, 
he set out for the town. And as he tramped 
along the road his thoughts were upon the 
probable fate of the dispatch and of the 
lugger. 

“ Both in the hands of the British,'’ he 
murmured dispiritedly. “ There can be noth- 
ing else for it. And who knows, before 
another sun sets I may be suspected and 
taken myself." 

He had no definite idea as to what he should 
do when he reached Plymouth ; but some- 
thing might be learned of the Erin, and that 
more than anything else induced him to enter 
the town. After wandering about for some 
time and watching the shipping and other 
things, his lagging steps halted before a great 
stone structure, grim looking and solid like a 
fortress. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 281 


A prison/’ he muttered as soon as his eyes 
traveled over it. Mill prison, where they 
treat the American seamen so cruelly, I have 
no doubt. And perhaps Shamus and that 
brave fellow McHale will be behind those 
walls before long.” 

As he looked, the huge door of the place 
opened and a tall, erect young man, in the 
scarlet coat of an English soldier, emerged, 
paused a moment, his eyes on Ethan, then came 
directly across toward him. For a moment 
the lad’s impulse was to run ; but second 
thought showed him how useless this would 
be, and he stood his ground. 

You are a sailor, I see,” said the soldier, 
his eyes running over the dress that Ethan 
had worn since his first day in the Ranger. 
The speaker was a handsome young fellow, 
with clear honest eyes, and a resolute face ; 
in spite of himself Ethan liked his looks. 

I am,” he answered, promptly. 

Out of a man of war, I take it ? ” 

Yes, and looking for another of the same 
sort,” said Ethan. 

The other regarded him with a peculiar 
expression, then asked : 


282 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


“ What part of England are you from ? 

Ethan laughed lightly, and put the question 
aside. 

“ I'll not answer that for certain reasons," 
said he. 

No harm done, I hope, comrade," spoke 
the young soldier. 

None at all," said Ethan, easily. 

The other turned and was about to walk 
away down the street ; but he paused and 
said slowly and distinctly : 

‘‘ London, I think, is the place for you." 

Then he wheeled about on his heel and 
walked, with military erectness, down along 
the prison wall, which he turned and so dis- 
appeared from view. 

'' What could he have meant by that ? " 
thought Ethan, astonished. “ ‘ London, I 
think, is the place for you.’" He remained 
silent a moment, and then resumed, “ And I 
think he is right. London is the place for me. 
There I can lose myself in the throngs ; and 
perhaps I can somehow get a ship for France." 

He gave up all hope of Longsword and 
McHale ; bitter as was the thought he made 
up his mind that it would be useless to linger 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 283 

about Plymouth in the hope of helping them ; 
he began to think, also, that it was dangerous 
for him, in his sailor’s dress, to be seen upon 
the streets ; at any time a press-gang might 
happen along, for the king’s ships were badly 
in need of men for the American war. So be- 
fore the city was well astir he had laid it behind 
him. On the road he met many wagons in 
from the farms with loads of fresh butter and 
eggs and other things for the town. 

Oh, lad,” cried one old man pointing at 
the young tar with his whip, and speaking in 
a broad dialect, “ hast left thy ship ? It’s main 
queer, so it is, that first I should meet with a 
soldier, and now with a sailor, upon the road 
to town.” 

A soldier,” thought Ethan, as he trudged 
along. “ I wonder if it could be the same 
one? ” 

Many times during the day he inquired his 
way of simple country folk along the way. 
They stared when they heard that he was going 
up to London ; it was a very large place and 
very far away. That night he stopped at a 
small wayside inn ; he saw the young soldier 
whom he had noticed coming out of the prison 


284 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

at Plymouth, and who had spoken to him. 
But the youth studiously avoided him, and as 
Ethan was not at all anxious to form the ac- 
quaintance of king’s men, he did not force 
himself upon him. 

When he arose next morning the soldier 
was not to be seen. The bo}^ breakfasted at 
his leisure ; the landlord and his wife, who 
took the young American to be a seaman of a 
British ship, off, perhaps, upon a visit to his 
old home in some inland town, began to 
question him about the progress of the war. 

“ And have you seen any of these American 
privateers that we hear so much about?” 
asked the landlord. Ethan nodded, and the 
man went on, “ Ah, they must be very des- 
perate fellows, indeed ; and stubborn fighters, 
too, I have heard tell.” 

“ They are,” said Ethan. 

Englishmen will have to stand together to 
gain the victory over such enemies,” said the 
landlord, shaking his head. “ And English- 
men in the service should trust one another ; 
they shouldn’t be like the soldier who slept 
here over night. Do you know, he seemed 
afraid of you ; and slipped away before you 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 285 

got up, without waiting for his breakfast. He 
said he’d take some bread and cheese to eat 
upon the road.” 

When Ethan once more resumed his journey 
toward London, his mind was full of con- 
jectures regarding this queer person in uni- 
form. Several times during the day he felt 
confident that he caught a glimpse of the 
scarlet coat dodging behind hedges and hay- 
stacks. The lad became suspicious of this 
and left the highroad for a small and badly 
cut up wagon way which a farmer informed 
him would land him on the London road 
some ten miles farther on. 

I’ll be out of sight of him now,” said the 
young seaman, as he plodded along. “ It 
can’t be that he suspects me for what I am ; 
if that were so he’d have summoned help and 
taken me long ago. But I don’t like his 
actions for all that, and it’s best that I see no 
more of him.” 

But his ruse to avoid any further meeting 
with the redcoat was not a success. Night 
brought him to another roadside hostelry, and 
the first person whom he saw, sitting upon a 
bench before the door, was that identical per- 


286 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


son. As they stood staring at each other in 
wondering surprise, Ethan noticed a sudden 
spasm of laughter sweep across the young 
man’s face ; the thing seemed infectious for, 
unable to control himself, the young American 
threw back his head and burst into a peal 
that made the old inn ring and caused the 
white-capped landlady to come rushing out to 
see what was the matter. 

The soldier regarded Ethan with some- 
what puzzled eyes ; it seemed that there 
was something about the boy that he 
did not quite understand, nor altogether 
trust. 

“ I see that you have followed my advice,” 
said he. 

Yes,” replied Ethan. “ I am going to 
London.” 

‘'You have chosen a rather out-of-the-way 
route,” said the soldier. 

“ Perhaps,” answered the other, “ but the 
highroad is not always desirable.” 

The young man regarded Ethan intently ; 
then he said : 

“ Somehow, I can’t quite make up my mind 
about you.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 287 

Ethan thought of the odd conduct of the 
speaker and replied, 

“ The feeling is mutual, then ; for you have 
puzzled me some.” 

The landlady had gone in once more, 
seeing that there was nothing wrong, and 
Ethan had taken a seat upon a bench 
facing the man in the scarlet coat. There 
was a short silence between them, then the 
latter asked : 

Will you lend me your knife ; I want to 
trim my cane a bit.” 

He held a light cane in his hand ; through 
constant contact with the ground this had be- 
come worn and splintered at one end. Ethan 
noticed that the man carried a knife in his 
own belt, but thinking it in bad condition, he 
handed over his own without a word. The 
soldier began to chip at his cane with great 
deliberation. 

IPs a good blade,” said he. “ Where did 
you get it ? ” 

“ Aboard ship,” said Ethan. 

“ Ah,” the man darted a quick look at him 
and then went on chipping. You got it 
from some other sailor, I suppose.” 


288 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 


“ No/^ answered the lad, all unsuspecting, 

the knife was supplied all hands by ” 

He stopped suddenly and bit his lip. The 
soldier looked at him, a laugh in his frank 
eyes. 

You were going to say — Congress,” spoke 
he, with great calmness. Ethan stared at him 
in astonished silence, and then the man con- 
tinued, 1 recall the knife well ; I had one 
myself It was given me while on board the 
Lexington.” 

The Lexington,” said Ethan, his breath 
coming hard. ‘*Were you on board her?” 
He continued to stare ; then added, As a 
prisoner, I suppose.” 

“ Prisoners are not supplied with knives on 
board American vessels of war,” said the other. 
I was master’s mate in the Lexington.” 

Then,” breathed Ethan excitedly, you 
are an American.” 

I am,” laughed the other. I am of Nor- 
folk, in Virginia, and my name is Richard 
Dale.” 

But,” and Ethan’s eyes ran over the British 

uniform, you are now ” 

He hesitated ; and the other leaned over 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 289 

and tapped him upon the knee with one 
finger. 

“ I am still an American. I wear a British 
uniform, but it is a disguise.” 

Then looking all about so as to assure himself 
that he was not overheard, Richard Dale told 
Ethan Carlyle his story. He told how the 
Lexington on that September day, when short 
of powder and ball, encountered the British 
cutter Alert. A desperate cannonading of two 
hours' duration ensued ; then the Lexington, 
running out of ball, clapped on sail and stood 
away. But the Alert was the swifter craft and 
overhauled her, renewing the engagement. 
The Lexington's crew broke up all the iron on 
board and rammed it into her guns, but when 
this was exhausted she was forced to strike her 
colors. 

The officers and crew were landed at Ply- 
mouth and confined in Mill prison, where 
they suffered greatly. 

‘‘ The men were actually starved,” said 
Richard Dale, his eyes shining with anger. 
“ You will better understand their dreadful 
condition when I tell you that one day they 
caught a stray dog and killed and cooked it 


290 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

for food. But Captain Johnson and some of 
the officers dug a hole beneath the wall of the 
prison, and one night about a dozen of us es- 
caped. We held together for a week or more, 
wandering by night about the countryside ; 
then we separated and I made my way to Lon- 
don with one companion. We had taken a 
ship for France when a press-gang boarded her 
and we were seized, recognized and sent back 
to Mill prison in chains. I have been there 
ever since,’^ said the young man in conclusion. 
“ My first breath of freedom in a year was 
taken when I stepped through the door of the 
prison yesterday morning and saw you stand- 
ing across the way.” 

“ I don’t exactly understand,” said Ethan 
bewilderedly. No one attempted to stop 
you.” 

“ Of course not,” answered Dale with a 
smile. “ A kind hearted person of rank who 
pitied me provided me with this uniform ; 
and I passed, unsuspected, through the 
keepers to freedom.” 

Who was the person ? ” asked Ethan. 
But Richard Dale smiled and shook his head. 
He lived a long life and died at the head of 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 291 

the American navy, but he ever refused to tell 
who had assisted him that day to escape from 
the Mill prison at Plymouth. 

“ When I saw you standing across the way,'' 
said Dale, “ your intent expression unnerved 
me for a moment. I thought you had pene- 
trated my disguise. But when I heard your 
voice I fancied that you might be an 
American." 

“ And that is why you warned me to go to 
London," said Ethan. 

Yes. But when I saw you at the inn last 
night I began to suspect you again. I fancied 
you were following me on the road to-day, 
and changed my route and came this way." 

“ And I," laughed Ethan, thought the 
same of you, and left the highroad for the 
same reason." 

They talked together while the landlady 
prepared some bacon and eggs for them. A 
light carriage drawn by a pair of swift gray 
horses drew up at the inn door ; a man and a 
well grown boy leaped out ; and at sight of 
them Ethan Carlyle shrank back out of sight. 

“ What is it ? " asked Dale in astonishment 
as the newcomers entered the inn. 


292 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

But Ethan did not reply ; his eyes were 
following the forms of Stephen Wheelock and 
the spy, Danvers, as they disappeared through 
the doorway. 


CHAPTER XXI 


THE EXPLOIT OF MASTER DIRK HATFIELD 

Ethan recovered himself in a very few mo- 
ments ; and then he told Dale the story of the 
dispatch and the part which Danvers had 
played in its disappearance. 

And so it has fallen into British hands at 
last/' said Dale, regretfully. Too bad ; for 
you and Captain Jones did all you could to 
save it, I can see that." 

Just then the landlady came out and an- 
nounced that their supper was ready. In a 
few moments they were seated with the smok- 
ing bacon and eggs before them, also some 
golden butter and a white loaf. There was a 
broad window looking out upon a sort of 
porch at the side of the inn, and just outside 
this window Danvers and young Wheelock 
sat engaged in an earnest conversation. 

The bacon is good," said Dale with great 
satisfaction, “and the eggs are perfect. It's a 
dish for a king after the food of the prison." 

Hoof-beats sounded upon the road. Look- 
293 


294 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

ing through the window they saw a man, 
mounted upon a powerful black horse, draw 
up and dismount. He wore long boots, a full 
skirted coat and a cocked hat with a star of 
silver metal at one side. In his belt were a 
pair of long heavy pistols ; and as he gave his 
horse to a groom he lilted a rollicking air. 
The landlady, who had just brought in a fresh 
dish of eggs, at sight of him dropped it upon 
the floor, at the same time uttering an ex- 
clamation of alarm. 

Again,” she cried, in apparent terror, 
he’ll have the magistrates upon me next, 
the villain ! ” 

What is it, good woman ? ” asked Dale, 
curiously. 

That I can’t tell, sir,” replied the hostess. 
“ It would be as much as my life would be 
worth, perhaps.” 

Don’t take the saddle off,” directed the 
newcomer in a deep voice, “ and stand ready 
to bring him out immediately when I give the 
word.” He tossed the groom a crown piece, 
then raised his voice to a shout. “ Ho, the 
house,” he cried. “ Mistress Parsons, why do 
you not come out to welcome an old patron ? ” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 295 

A patron whom I wish I'd never laid eyes 
upon,” said the landlady. But, nevertheless, 
she bustled out at once, and they could hear 
her greeting the man in the cocked hat with 
well assumed effusiveness. There was a slow- 
moving, chuckle-headed fellow employed at 
the inn in some capacity, who happened to be 
in the room at the time. He shook his head 
from side to side, and grinned widely. 

“ Mistress Parsons don't like Dirk Hatfield 
to come here,” he volunteered, to Ethan and 
Dale. “ But she daren't order him away.” 

“ Why not? ” asked Ethan for want of some- 
thing better to say. The man opened his 
round eyes still wider and exclaimed in tones 
of wonder. 

What, drive off Dirk Hatfield ! Why 
he'd kill us all in our beds. Don't you know 
him, sirs? He's a highwayman,” in a low 
voice of terror ; “ they say that once he stopped 
the Lord Mayor of London himself and made 
him deliver. Oh, he's a daring rogue, in- 
deed.” 

Before they had time to comment upon this 
the landlady ushered Master Hatfield into 
the room. He was a large man with wide 


296 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

shoulders and deep chest, and he walked with 
the swagger of a bravo. At sight of Daleys 
scarlet coat he started ; but he recovered him- 
self immediately, hitched one of his heavy 
pistols nearer to his hand, and took a seat at 
a table near the window. 

Now, Mistress Parsons,^^ said he, “ I’ll 
have some food ; and make all the speed you 
can, for I must hurry on.” 

Very well, sir,” said the landlady with a 
bow, I’ll attend to it myself, sir.” 

She bustled out of the room to the kitchen, 
and the highwayman spread his booted legs 
under the table, tucked his thumbs into his 
belt and regarded Ethan and Dale with care- 
less indifference. But his attention was soon 
drawn from them to Danvers and Wheelock 
who still sat conversing upon the side porch 
near the window. Their tones had grown 
louder, and Ethan could plainly hear what 
passed between them, as could Dale and Mas- 
ter Dirk Hatfield. 

And how did you learn that Pochard had 
deceived you ? ” Wheelock Avas saying. 

He sent me word himself that he had the 
paper — that he had taken it from Siki. He 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 297 

had intended disposing of it himself, but at 
the last moment he grew afraid ; the French 
might call it treason, you know, to give com- 
fort to the enemy in the way of news. So he 

crossed the channel in a French vessel 

Why,’^ exclaimed Wheelock, it was the 
British frigate Sea Horse he was in at Ply- 
mouth, was it not? ” 

“ It was. The Sea Horse took the vessel in 
which he had crossed : but when the captain 
learned that Fochard had secret business with 
me he knew that for the time at least he was 
an important personage and so entered the 
river and sent for me.” 

He drew out a packet, stained and soiled, 
and sealed with great splotches of red wax, 
and laid it upon the table between them with 
much satisfaction. Ethan drew in his breath 
sharply at sight of it and his hand closed like 
a vise upon Dale’s arm. 

The secret dispatch,” he whispered. 

The boy was in such a position that Dan- 
vers, even should he look into the room, could 
not see him ; but Ethan had a clear view of 
the two upon the porch, and kept his eyes 
upon them constantly. 


298 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Ten thousand pounds,” said Wheelock in 
a brooding sort of way. It’s a great deal of 
money to give up to that French rascal.” 

I know it,” said Danvers, but those were 
his terms. He wanted all the money and 
kindly offered the credit to me. And that 
was something; for he could have just as 
well as not have taken the papers to Lord 
North and received both.” 

The ten thousand pounds will be delivered 
to whoever turns over the paper, and no 
questions asked, I suppose,” said Wheelock. 

Yes,” laughed Danvers, once more stuffing 
the packet into the breast pocket of his coat, 
‘‘ but don’t think to make off with it, my lad ; 
I have it safely here, and mean to keep it.” 

All this seemed to interest Master Hatfield 
vastly. He leaned intently forward, and the 
expression upon his face was eager and alert. 
Dale nudged Ethan and the latter nodded 
that he saw this sudden display of atten- 
tion. 

“ It will not now be long before the dispatch 
is in the hands of the ministry at London,” 
continued Danvers, “ if these horses hold out.” 

He paused suddenly, for he had caught 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 299 

sight of the intent face of the highwayman 
and the covetous snap of his eyes. His voice, 
when he resumed, had fallen much lower ; 
and in a few moments the two left the porch 
and entered a private room of the inn. 

While he ate his supper of capon pie and 
smacked his lips over his stone mug the gen- 
tleman of the road smiled grimly. Ethan and 
Dale shortly withdrew, and once clear of the 
room they looked at each other significantly. 

“ The paper,” said Dale, “ will soon be 
sought by good Master Hatfield, if I am not 
much mistaken.” 

Just then the chuckle-headed attendant at 
the inn came out and called to a hostler who 
stood at the stable door. 

“ What’s wanted? ” asked the latter. 

“ You’re to bring up the carriage for the two 
gentlemen immediately,” said the other. 

His mistress, her eyes full of anger, ap- 
peared behind him at this and whirled him 
within as she hissed. 

You thick-head ! Were you not told to 
give the order quietly? ” 

They have taken the alarm,” commented 
Dale, referring to Danvers and Wheelock. 


300 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“The knight of the road did not impress 
them.’^ 

“ They will not wait for refreshments, 
even,” said Ethan. “ And night is falling, 
too. They would be safer if they remained.” 

Night had come upon the still countryside 
while they stood talking before the inn ; and 
the darkness was growing deeper and deeper 
with each passing moment. When the stable- 
men brought the carriage around to the front 
its lamps were lit and glimmered redly. 

“ These two travelers must be in a hurry,” 
said one of the men to the other. 

“ Indeed, yes,” answered the second. “ It’s 
going to be a dark night, and they’ll have 
trouble before they reach the highroad to 
London. This one is badly cut up a piece 
below here.” 

“ But the road won’t be their greatest hin- 
drance,” whispered the first speaker. “ Don’t 
you see that Master Hatfield has ordered out 
Black George? There is Will Hampton with 
him now.” 

The two Americans turned their eyes in- 
stantly toward a side door to the stable, from 
which came the faint glimmer of a lantern. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 301 

A third groom was leading the great black 
horse of Hatfield out into the yard ; and in 
the sickly flare of the light they also made 
out the tall figure of the highwayman, bend- 
ing over and looking to the priming of his 
pistols. 

I must get the dispatch at once,” said 
Ethan hurriedly. 

He was about darting into the inn, but Dale 
caught him by the arm. 

Not so fast,” said the Virginian. Let 
Danvers know who you are and he’ll sell us 
out without hesitation.” 

You are right,” said Ethan. 

A clatter of hoofs upon the stones caused 
them to turn once more toward the stable- 
yard. Master Dirk Hatfield had thrown him- 
self into the saddle, and now with a wave of 
his hand to the hostler, which looked much 
like a warning to silence, he disappeared in 
the gloom. Danvers and Wheelock soon came 
out and entered their vehicle. 

Well?” said Dale inquiringly. 

“ I’ll follow behind and stop them on the 
road,” said Ethan, resolutely. “ Then I can 
get the paper, if possible, and slip away before 


302 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Danvers can reach the ear of any one to be- 
tray me.’’ 

“ I’m with you,” said Richard Dale. 

Ethan clasped his hand in silence. At that 
moment the carriage started up the dark road. 
A boy was driving it, and he was compelled to 
go slowly, so they had no trouble in keeping 
it within hearing ; for it was impossible to 
see more than a dozen yards ahead, and the 
lamps were but pin points of flame invisible 
from behind. 

Suddenly there was a shout, a shrill cry 
and the sound of plunging horses. 

“ He’s upon them already,” shouted 
Ethan. 

Both he and Dale broke into a stumbling 
run down the dark road toward the sounds. 
Then came a pistol shot, another cry, the con- 
fused sound of voices, and at last rapid hoof- 
beats flying along the road. When they 
reached the scene they found the driver 
crouched in fear by the roadside, one of his 
horses lying in a tangle of harness, while 
Danvers, supported by Wheelock, was bleed- 
ing and unconscious. Ethan seized one of 
the carriage lamps, flashed its dim rays about. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 303 

and took in all this. But he kept his face 
hidden as much as possible. 

Help ! called Wheelock, eagerly, as the 
footsteps of the newcomers fell upon his hear- 
ing. “ A highwayman has attacked and has 
robbed us.’' 

^^Of your money?” said Ethan, a tremble 
in his voice. 

No ; of a paper — a very valuable paper. 
Get horses ; pursue him ; take him dead or 
alive, and the reward will open your eyes.” 

Ethan and Dale looked at each other, but 
neither spoke ; from far down the dark road 
the hoofs of the great black horse rang ever 
more faintly upon the frozen ground. 


CHAPTER XXII 


THE PRESS-GANG 

To hasten back to the inn and secure a 
couple of horses was the work of but a few 
minutes. Then Ethan and Richard Dale 
started in pursuit of the gentleman of the 
road. 

“ He’s making his way toward the highway 
to London,” said Ethan as their mounts 
dashed bravely along the dark road. “ And 
as I suppose he knows every cross-path and 
turn of the way there is not much hope of our 
overtaking him.” 

I’m afraid not,” answered Dale. 

“But we’ll after him for all that,” said 
Ethan. “We must take advantage of every 
chance to recover the dispatch.” 

But it was as the boy feared. Master Dirk 
Hatfield knew all the roads and cross-paths, 
even in the darkness, and, like a fox, his first 
efforts were devoted to winding and doubling 
upon his trail. But they felt that he was 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 305 

headed for London, and so pressed on in that 
direction. 

They reached the capital late one afternoon, 
and sent the horses to a person whom their 
owner had indicated. 

“ Now,’' said Ethan, after this had been 
attended to, “ I think the first thing that we 
should do is to get a change of costume — some- 
thing less noticeable than we are now wearing.” 

I have been thinking of that,” said Dale. 

This scarlet coat makes me a marked man, 
and that is not good for one who does not de- 
sire to be observed.” 

They sought out the district down near the 
water-side where they knew there would be 
slop-shops whose proprietors would be only 
too glad to turn an honest penny and keep 
silent. They came upon such a place within 
a few moments after entering the quarter fre- 
quented by the seamen who came into that 
port. There were old clothes in great variety 
hung about the door upon pegs, and a long- 
bearded, hook-nosed man prowled up and 
down, his sharp eyes ever alert for customers. 

Oh,” said he, rubbing his hands together 
as they paused before the place. “ How do you 


3o6 with JOHN PAUL JONES 

do, Jack ? Soldier, I am glad to see you, my 
son. Just step inside. If it is clothing you 
want, or jewelry, you have come to the right 
place. I have a stock, my dears, that can’t be 
matched in London.” 

“ For badness, I suppose you mean,” said 
Ethan, as they followed him in. 

The hook-nosed man laughed and jagged 
the boy playfully with his elbow. 

‘‘ Jack-tars,” said he, always like their 
joke. But I enjoy it, my son ; for I under- 
stand your fun.” 

He looked at them from under shaggy 
brows, with eyes that twinkled with cunning. 

“ It is not jewelry you want? ” he said. 

No,” answered Ethan. 

Again the man laughed. 

“ I knew it,” he said. It is clothing — 
clothing such as most citizens of London wear 
— clothing that will pass you in the crowd 
along with the thousand and one others and 
will cause no man to look at you twice.” 

He leered at them knowingly ; and Dale 
said. 

You are a wise man, friend ; so let us see 
these garments of which you speak.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 307 

The man promptly spread many suits of 
more or less worn clothing before them. 

“ Youth,” spoke he, sagely, as they were 
selecting, “ is ever desiring a change. They 
are not satisfied with the dull life they lead — 
and so go into the navy, or army. And,” with 
a chuckle of malice, “ they grow tired of that 
very soon, as a rule ; and then they come to 
me, change their clothes and slip away.” 

You think us deserters, then,” said Ethan. 

My son, I think nothing. I take your 
money and give you the goods you buy. I 
never question my customers. But,” with one 
dirty finger laid alongside his nose, “ I some- 
times hazard a guess.” 

They selected the garments which they pre- 
ferred, and a few moments later they had 
donned them. 

“ We’ll leave the others,” said Ethan, as he 
paid the bill. “ You can do what you like 
with them.” 

** You are very kind,” smirked the hook- 
nosed man. “ And I thank you much.” 

He followed them outside and stood watch- 
ing them as they went down the street. 

A knave, or I never saw one,” remarked 


3o8 with JOHN PAUL JONES 

Dale with a backward glance over his 
shoulder. 

“ I think you are right,” said Ethan. I 
suppose most of these water-side characters are 
alike ; they’d sell any one if the price were 
high enough.” 

They turned a corner, out, as they supposed, 
of the man’s view ; a little further on Ethan 
suddenly grasped Dale’s arm. 

“ Look there,” he whispered, his face paling 
with sudden excitement. 

“ What is it? ” asked the ex-master’s mate of 
the Lexington. 

‘‘ Under the shed, there by the pastry cook’s. 
The horse, I mean.” 

Dale gazed at the large, coal black beast 
hitched to a post and munching a feed of corn 
out of a small tub. 

Dirk Hatfield’s horse,” cried the sailor. 

“ The same,” said Ethan. “ And where the 
horse is the master cannot be far away.” 

‘‘ In the cook’s shop,” said Dale, eagerly. 

“ As like as not. Let us go in.” 

They crossed toward the glass fronted shop ; 
through the wundow they saw a neatly ap- 
pointed place whose counters were filled wdth 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 309 

the flaky products of its ovens ; a white- 
capped, round faced man presided over it ; 
and at a table, knife and fork in hand and 
napkin tucked under his shirt collar, sat the 
worthy Master Hatfield, attacking with gusto 
a smoking dish of pigeon stew. As the 
two Americans stalked in, he gave them a 
glance ; but their change of dress saved 
them from recognition. They took seats, 
and the white capped man served them with 
food, all the time continuing the conversa- 
tion which he had been holding with the 
highwayman. 

Yes,^' he was saying, “ the king^s ships 
are in a bad way indeed for lack of men. 
They say the frigate Serapis is almost un- 
manned.’^ 

Too bad,” growled the gentleman of the 
road, who though his hand was constantly 
raised against the law and its officers was a 
stout Briton at heart. How do we expect to 
beat the French and the Yankees if our ships 
can’t put to sea? ” 

You speak truth,” said the pastry cook. 
'' And the impudent Yankees need a beating 
badly. Their insolence in crossing the ocean 


310 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

in their cockle-shells and attacking English 
ports is more than can be borne.’’ 

The man puffed his round cheeks with in- 
dignation and rattled the plates with vigor. 
Dirk Hatfield paused in his assault upon the 
pigeon stew long enough to reply : 

“ Oh, but they’ll get their trouncing before 
long, mark me. English tars and English 
ships rule the sea ; it’s not for the Yankees to 
hoist a fiag without British permission, and 
their colored rags will soon be trailed in the 
dirt of their decks, and Britannia queen of 
them all, as is her place.” 

“ Are you up from the water-side, friends?” 
asked the cook, as Ethan and Dale calmly ate 
of the dishes he had placed before them, and 
watched the highwayman cautiously. 

‘‘ No,” answered Ethan ; from Plymouth.” 

The highwayman lifted his head and gave 
the boy a long look of interest. 

Are the press-gangs out, there, as in Lon- 
don?” asked the proprietor. 

“ I’ve heard that they were busy there,” 
said Ethan. 

“ It’s the same all over the kingdom, I 
suppose.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 311 

Neither of the Americans replied ; and in 
a few moments Hatfield spoke up. 

“ Plymouth is a brisk little place ; it is no 
great size, indeed, but many things happen 
there.” 

“ Right,” said the pastry cook ; “ the fieets 
sail from there very often.” 

It's not by sea alone that Plymouth is 
brisk,” continued the gentleman of the road ; 
“ but by land as well. And the country be- 
tween that town and London offers many 
opportunities to a man of parts.” 

'' Ay. I've heard it said often that it was a 
most excellent farming section.” 

“ Good strokes of business are to be done 
thereabouts,” continued Hatfield. My last 
visit there,” and he slapped the breast of his 
coat with a chuckle, promises to pay me a 
pretty penny, indeed.” 

“ The luck was with you, then ? ” cried the 
pastry cook with innocent interest. 

It was,” laughed Hatfield. It was very 
much with me, sir.” 

“ He still has the dispatch,” whispered 
Ethan to Dale. 

“ In his breast pocket,” returned the 


312 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

sailor, in the same low tone. But he is 
armed. 

If we take him suddenly well have the 
advantage for all that.^’ 

The pastry cook and the highwayman con- 
tinued their talk ; the two Americans had 
their heads together, thrashing out the situa- 
tion. 

“ It’s dark without,” said Ethan at last, 
guardedly. We’ll take him unawares when 
he is about to mount his horse.” 

Dale now and then glanced with much in- 
terest into the street through the glass of the 
doors. He leaned forward at length and spoke 
to the proprietor. 

“ Your place,” said he, “ appears to attract 
much attention, sir.” 

The man seemed greatly pleased and smiled 
broadly. 

I have often marked that,” he said. “ It 
increases business, sir, to make one’s shop 
bright and attractive.” 

You have much custom among the sailors 
in the district, I suppose? ” 

The pastry cook pursed up his mouth and 
shook his head doubtfully. 



AN ANGRY LOOK CAME ISTO 
HA T FIELD’S E YES 









WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 313 

“ No/’ he said, I think not. The grog 
shops attract them most.” 

“ I have noticed,” said Dale calmly, his 
gaze once more directed toward the street, 
that there are many sailors about just now, 
and they all, somehow, seem to feel much in- 
terest in this place.” 

A number of seamen with cutlasses belted 
at their sides were to be seen across the way ; 
two or three stood at the window ; and as 
Dale spoke their leader, evidently a boatswain, 
opened the door and swaggered in. The 
proprietor advanced with an uneasy smile. 

** Good evening, sir,” said he, with a bow. 

“ How do you do ? ” returned the other. 
As he said this he glanced at the shop’s 
three patrons with an air of calm inspection. 
The powerful figure of Dirk Hatfield seemed 
to attract him, and he coolly advanced to his 
side. 

Sailor, I think,” he said. 

“ Wrong,” said the gentleman of the road, 
looking up from his meal. 

I think not,” persisted the man-of-war’s- 
man quietly. 

An angry look came into Hatfield’s fierce 


314 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

eyes ; he laid down his knife and fork, leaned 
back in his chair and growled out, 

“ Well, my man, you are a pert lad enough ; 
but be careful how you speak to a gentleman. 
You are in danger of having your face spoiled 
if you talk like that.’' 

The sailor laughed. He swung one leg 
over the corner of the table at which the other 
sat and tapped with one finger tip upon the 
butt of a pistol. 

“ I’m not much afraid of that — my man,” 
he said. 

The pastry cook leaned over Ethan and 
whispered, There is a door in the rear that 
leads through the kitchen and into a small 
court.” 

The young American looked at the man in 
surprise ; then he felt Dale touch his sleeve, 
and turned toward him. 

“ Look outside there,” whispered the ex- 
master’s mate. 

Ethan did as requested ; to his surprise he 
saw the hook-nosed bearded man, of whom 
they had bought the clothing a short time be- 
fore, conversing, with much gesticulation, with 
the seamen without. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 315 

He's a crimp," said Dale, in a whisper, 
“ and has betrayed us. The place is sur- 
rounded by a press-gang." 

“ A press-gang ! " Ethan stared at his com- 
panion. 

Yes," said Dale, with set face ; ‘‘and as I 
have had one experience with this sort of 
gentry before, I don’t care for another." 

“ The rear door, gentlemen, the rear door," 
whispered the pastry cook. “ Here they come." 

A half-dozen seamen crowded into the shop ; 
the boatswain, who still sat nonchalantly upon 
the corner of the table, said, briefly : 

“ You’ll And over there the two we are after, 
lads." 

He jerked his thumb toward the Americans 
as he spoke. The hook-nosed man stood in 
the doorway and grinned with satisfaction. 
The highwayman still lay back in his chair ; 
his teeth showed, wolf-like, and his strong 
hands gripped the edge of the table. 

“ The paper," whispered Ethan. His face 
was white as he leaned toward Dale and 
uttered the words. Once more the longed-for 
dispatch was almost within his reach, and 
once more it was about to elude him. 


3i6 with JOHN PAUL JONES 

Don’t think of that now,” said Dale, 
guardedly. “ It is impossible for us to recover 
it here. Let us escape first, and help Hat- 
field to escape if we can. We can gain pos- 
session of the dispatch later, if all is well.” 

The sailors now advanced upon the two. 

“Do ye strike your colors, shipmates?” 
asked an old gunner with a laugh. “ The 
king needs men too badly to have likely 
young chaps such as you run off like 
this.” 

He was about to lay hands upon Dale when 
Ethan struck him a quick, heavy blow that 
sent him reeling. Dale was up in an instant, 
and as the men of the press-gang sprang for- 
ward, planted blow after blow among them 
with telling effect. A rush of additional sea- 
men came through the door ; Dirk Hatfield 
was upon his feet, also, by now; his heavy 
pistol barked sullenly among the crowd and 
then rose and fell with battering force as he 
used it hammer like. Ethan found himself 
shoulder to shoulder with the man for an 
instant. 

“ When the lights go out,” he said, “ make 
for the rear door.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 317 

Hatfield nodded understandingly, striking 
out viciously all the while. 

A number of candles had been overturned 
in the struggle ; now only a single branch 
illuminated the room. Ethan, with a quick 
pass, knocked this over, also, and the shop 
was instantly plunged into darkness. 

“ Now,” cried the young American. 

He and Dale gained the door in the rear ; 
but the highwayman’s nasty temper played 
its part here, and he paused to deal a shower 
of blows upon the boatswain, whom he had 
seized by the throat just as the light was 
extinguished. 

Ethan and Dale plunged into the little court 
at the back of the place and found a single 
seaman guarding it with drawn cutlass. A 
quick rush together disposed of him, and in 
a moment they were upon the street, lurking 
in the shadows, and hearkening to the fierce 
conflict that raged within the room which 
they had just left. 

This lasted but a few moments, however ; 
then the press-gang appeared, dragging in the 
midst of them the grim figure of the high- 
wayman. 


3i8 with JOHN PAUL JONES 

“Caught!” breathed Ethan, despairingly. 

“ Master Hatfield,” said Dale in a low voice, 
“ has stopped his last traveler for many a long 
day, and is now in a fair way toward serving 
his king upon the sea.” 


CHAPTER XXIII 


HOW THE BON HOMME RICHARD MET THE SERAPIS 

Ethan Carlyle and his friend Richard 
Dale, after their experience with the press- 
gang, made it a point to keep themselves as 
much in the background as possible during 
the remainder of their stay in London. This 
latter was very much longer than they had 
expected ; days grew into weeks and weeks 
into months, but still they found no means of 
crossing the narrow seas to France. 

Dale had little or no money, and Ethanes 
supply had all but given out when, at length, 
they found a Scotch skipper who agreed to 
give them passage in his vessel. On the way 
across the two young men talked much about 
the future and of what they still hoped to do 
in the cause of liberty. 

If it is my good fortune to fall in with 
Captain Paul Jones once more,” said Ethan, 
** I shall bless my lucky stars.” 

‘‘ That is a gallant sailor and an excellent 
319 


320 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

commander/' spoke Richard Dale, admiringly. 
“ I should like to serve under him." 

Ethan had told Dale many times of the 
captain's bravery, skill and splendid love of 
freedom ; his tales had fired the young Vir- 
ginian's imagination to such an extent that he 
desired nothing better than to sail under such 
an able officer. 

It's a disappointment to him, I suppose," 
continued Dale, not to have recovered the 
dispatch." 

A very bitter one, indeed. And the fact 
that it was stolen while in his care makes it 
all the more so." 

There is a slim chance of its ever being re- 
covered now," said Dale. 

I have thought a good deal about it since 
the impressment of that man, Dirk Hatfield," 
answered Ethan. “ And I fancy that the 
paper may not come under the eye of the 
British ministry in such a hurry, after all." 

“ What makes you think that ? " 

‘‘ Well, in the first place, Hatfield would be 
forced to acknowledge himself a highwayman 
and tell how he came to have the dispatch in 
his possession." 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 321 

“You forget that Danvers said that no 
questions would be asked the person handing 
it over to Lord North.” 

“ I hold that saying in mind very well. But 
Hatfield would not trust to it ; a hunted wolf 
has no confidence in the hunter, even though 
he have no weapon in his hands.” 

“ What do you suppose, then, would be the 
man's plan of action ? ” 

“ Like Pochard, he will hold the dispatch 
until he can secure the service of an inter- 
mediary. A man of his desperate and enter- 
prising nature will not remain in a king’s ship 
very long ; he’ll escape at the first opportunity. 
Then he will seek to dispose of the paper, and 
it may be my luck to once more stumble upon 
some trace of it.” 

“ Fate does, indeed, seem to lead you by the 
hand in the matter,” smiled Richard Dale. 
“ But she has, up to the present, held you 
back when upon the very threshold of success.” 

“ It will not be always so, perhaps,” said 
Ethan earnestly. “ Let us hope so, at least.” 

The vessel landed them at Brest secretly ; 
the Scotch skipper seemed to have some sort 
of an understanding with the authorities, and 


322 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

though they gave him no trouble when he ran 
in, still he did the thing with all speed, and 
immediately made sail once more. 

After securing lodgings they began making 
inquiries regarding American warships in 
French waters. 

There was a fleet of four ships sailed out of 
L’Orient not long since, replied the person 
asked . ‘ ‘ The French government provided the 
vessels, I think, but the commander was an 
American.” 

And who was he ? ” 

Why, none other than your great Captain 
John Paul Jones.” 

Ethan and Dale uttered exclamations of 
bitter disappointment. 

“You are positive of this, I suppose,” said 
the former. 

“ Quite so, monsieur. The sailing of the 
squadron was upon every one’s tongue a short 
time ago.” 

“ There is no use in crying over spilled 
milk,” said Dale, with a sigh as they walked 
away. “ As Captain Jones is gone. I’ll have a 
try for some other American skipper.” 

But there was none in Brest at that time ; 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 323 

and after a two days’ stay Dale said to 
Ethan, 

“ I think ril go to L’Orient. There at least 
must be an American privateer there that I 
can get a berth in.” 

“ I’ll go with you,” said Ethan ; ‘‘ then I 
shall go on to Paris, report my further failure 
to Dr. Franklin, and after that sail for home.” 

They traveled by diligence toL’Orient, which 
was no great distance from Brest. Dale at once 
sought out a shipping office which he knew to 
be much frequented by American shipmen in 
search of hands to man their crafts. 

A trim looking midshipman stood near the 
door, and he looked at them with attention as 
they entered. Directly behind him loomed a 
tall, spare, large boned man of singular erect- 
ness. He had an ugly sabre stroke across his 
face. 

Longsword ! ” cried Ethan as his delighted 
eyes fell upon him. 

Master Ethan,” came a deep chested shout 
from the Irish dragoon. Then with a wild 
Irish hurro ! ” he leaped forward and clasped 
the boy in a bear-like hug. 

I thought you had been taken prisoner,” 


324 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

gasped the young American, breathless from 
the pressure which the powerful trooper had 
put upon his ribs. 

And so I would have been had it not been 
for that broth of a gossoon Rory McHale. I 
never saw such seamanship as he put out of 
him. When the mast went he had it cleared 
away in a few minutes ; then he sailed so close 
in shore that me heart was in me mouth for 
fear of the rocks. But he slipped the English- 
man, and by daylight we were far away. 
But, lad,” and his voice sank lower and a note 
of feeling crept into it that sounded strange 
in so grim a veteran, I thought ye gone, in- 
deed, when ye went over the stern. I thought 
to follow ye, but McHale held me back.” 

Ethan gripped the warm hearted fellow^s 
hand, with the tears standing in his eyes. 

“ Good old Longsword ! ” he said, quietly. 
“ There was never a time in my life that you 
were not willing and anxious to stand by 
me.” 

While they were speaking the middy had 
accosted Dale. 

“ Looking for a ship ? ” asked he. 

I am,” said Dale. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 325 

“ Fm shipping men for the Bon Homme 
Richard.” 

Is she a privateer ? ” 

The middy laughed. 

I should say not,” he replied. “ Her 
commander is John Paul Jones.” 

Ethan heard these words, and both he and 
Dale uttered cries of surprise. 

“ Captain Jones,” said the former. Why, 
we heard that he had just put to sea.” 

Right,” said the middy. “ And he re- 
turned when one of his frigates ran into the 
flagship and stove a hole in her. We are laid 
up for repairs.” 

Hurrah ! ” shouted Ethan, exultantly. 
Then turning to Dale he said : “You’ll ship 
with him after all, you see.” 

The trim young midshipman was all atten- 
tion in a moment ; good seamen were very 
scarce, and he liked Dale’s looks. 

“ The captain will be here in a few mo- 
ments,” he said, “ and you can sign if you 
like. We need able seamen and warrant 
officers of a likely sort.” 

As he spoke the door opened and the slight, 
smartly uniformed figure of John Paul Jones 


326 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

entered the shipping office. His eyes lighted 
up at sight of Ethan, and in a moment they 
had clasped hands. 

When Ethan had sketched his experiences 
briefly, the captain said : 

I am delighted that you have come 
through it all safely. After Longsword re- 
turned and told me how you were carried 
over the stern of the lugger by the falling 
mast, I gave you up for lost. And this is Mr. 
Dale, is it ? 

“ Yes,^^ said Ethan ; “ and he wants to sail 
with you.’^ 

The American commander’s eyes gleamed 
with satisfaction as they took in all the fine 
qualities of the young sailor. 

You are a seaman, then ? ” he said to 
Dale. 

“Yes, sir. My last berth was master’s mate 
aboard the Lexington.” Dale stood stiffly 
erect and saluted as he spoke. 

“ I’ll ship you at the same rating,” said 
Jones. “ I wish I could get more Americans 
to man my vessel.” 

“ That should be very easy now, captain. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 327 

dear,” said Longsword, eagerly. “ That is if 
what Tve just heard is true.” 

And what is that ? ” 

“ A lot of more than a hundred exchanged 
prisoners have just arrived at Nantes.” 

Mr. Lunt,” and the captain turned to an 
officer who had accompanied him, we want 
those men for the Richard, and must have 
them.” 

“ We will have them, sir, if it is possible,” 
said Lunt, promptly. I’ll send messengers 
to Nantes at once.” 

During the conversation that followed 
Lunt’s departure, Ethan had an opportunity 
to examine Paul Jones carefully. Deep lines 
of care were in his face — lines that had not 
been there before, and a sprinkling of silver 
also showed in his hair. And little wonder. 
Since returning from his voyage upon the 
Ranger, he had encountered nothing but 
heart-breaking delays, rebuffs and disappoint- 
ments. 

Since France had also gone to war with 
England he had expected to receive command 
of a French ship to sail under the stars and 


328 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

stripes. But nothing had come of it. Hopes 
of one kind or another were held out to him 
from time to time, but all resulted in bitter 
disappointments. 

At length a rich banker of Paris, Le Ray de 
Chaumont, who admired the Americans and 
earnestly desired victory for the cause of 
liberty, took an active part in Jones’ affairs ; 
and at last the king was moved to do some- 
thing for the American officer. 

“ We will place him in command of a 
squadron, make a descent upon Liverpool, 
and land a military force. Lafayette has just 
arrived from America in good time ; we shall 
have him in command of the troops.” 

But there were no warships at hand for this 
venture ; so, by request, Jones had gone from 
port seeking vessels that could be converted. 
At L’Orient he came upon a huge old-fashioned 
merchantman that had sailed for some fifteen 
years in the India trade and had been finally 
condemned, dismantled and allowed to gradu- 
ally fall into a state of ruin. This old vessel 
was called the Due de Duras, and was the 
most likely one that the hard pressed officer 
could find. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 329 

She was eventually purchased for me/^ 
John Paul Jones said, in telling Ethan the 
story, “ and so were two other and smaller 
merchant ships — the Pallas and the Venge- 
ance. A fine American frigate was also placed 
under my command ; she is called the Alli- 
ance ; then there is also the Cerf, a king’s 
cutter. 

“ I at once set about getting these vessels 
into condition for the cruise. The name of 
the Due de Duras I changed to that of Bon 
Homme Richard. That, as I suppose you 
know, is the title of the French translation of 
Dr. Franklin’s ‘ Poor Richard’s Almanac,’ of 
which I am a great admirer.” 

As Ethan learned, the Richard was a ship 
of obsolete type ; her towering poop and top- 
gallant forecastle gave her a strange and an- 
cient look. Neglect had rotted her timbers 
and weakened her frame ; and she was scarcely 
sound enough to stand the necessary repairs. 

Nevertheless, her captain went bravely 
ahead and did all he could to strengthen her. 
He pierced her for twenty-eight guns on her 
main deck, and six on the tall forecastle and 
poop. 


330 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

** It was my intention to arm her with 
eighteen pounders/’ the captain continued ; 

but could get nothing heavier than nine 
pounders for the quarter-deck and forecastle ; 
but I got six eighteens for the deck below ; 
they are poorly-made guns, however, and to 
speak the plain truth, I’m rather afraid of 
them.” 

A poor ship,” commented Ethan, soberly. 
It’s a great pity that something better could 
not be done for you.” 

A vessel ill-adapted to warfare is not the 
worst that I have had to contend with,” re- 
turned Captain Jones, rather bitterly. “ The 
crew that I was forced to ship is a most curi- 
ous mixture of races, and the fiercest and most 
unruly body of men that I ever saw gathered 
upon a ship’s deck. There are a very few 
Americans ; England, Ireland, Scotland, France 
and Norway have all contributed to my ship’s 
company, as have Africa, India and the Ma- 
layan Peninsula. 

When my squadron sailed and I had 
brought my crew into some sort of discipline I 
fancied that my troubles were about over for 
a time. But then my captains, under the 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 331 

leadership of Pierre Landais, commander of 
the Alliance, began to show their teeth ; and 
one night the Alliance ran afoul of the Rich- 
ard, and we were compelled to put back for 
overhauling/' 

“ It may not prove a bad thing either," said 
Ethan at this point. “ If you secure this 
cartel of exchanges at Nantes you'll have a 
crew that you can rely upon." 

As it afterward appeared, Ethan guessed 
the truth. The American prisoners about 
whom Longsword had spoken had just arrived 
in France, burning with the desire to fight 
against the country which had treated them 
so cruelly in its prisons. They were a fine 
body of men, stalwart and skilled in the 
handling of sea-going ships, and they leavened 
the mass of the Richard's crew wonderfully 
when they came on board ; from a semi-rabble 
of mutinous ruffians it came, in the end, to be 
as effective and steady a ship's company as an 
officer could desire. 

The repairs upon the Bon Homme Richard 
were carried on rapidly. Dale took his place 
on board and his practical judgment and 
sound sense soon attracted the attention of 


332 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

all. He had a knack of handling men, and 
could get more labor out of them by a cheer- 
ful, encouraging manner than most of the 
others could by their hectoring and loud im- 
patience. Captain Jones noticed this ; the 
quiet, thorough manner of the young Vir- 
ginian pleased him, for it spoke of an alert 
and ready mind. 

Ethan was aware of all this, and when, one 
day, Dale came to him with sparkling eyes 
and face flushed with pleasure, he was not at 
all surprised at his bursting out, 

Old fellow, great news ! Captain Jones 
has secured me a commission.” 

“ I knew he would,” cried Ethan, delight- 
edly. He approved of your work from the 
first.” 

But in my wildest flights, Pve never 
hoped for so long a step,” said Dale. I’m 
to be first lieutenant of the Richard.” 

Ethan whistled ; Longs word, who stood at 
his side, raised his brows. 

“ Well, I call that going up the ladder 
at a pretty stiff* speed,” the Irishman re- 
marked. '' But, sure, it’s nothing more than 
your due, Mr. Dale; ye can handle men 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 333 

and things better nor any one I ever saw 
before.’' 

It was one of the qualities of John Paul 
Jones that he recognized exceptional ability at 
a glance ; and that he possessed this knack 
was a most fortunate thing for him at this 
most critical period in his career, for the time 
was fast approaching when the sterling metal of 
Richard Dale turned the scale in his favor and 
snatched victory from the very jaws of defeat. 

The little squadron left the roads of Groix 
on the morning of August 14th, 1779, and 
ventured once more into the narrow seas. 
The expedition against Liverpool had been 
abandoned long before, and the further crip- 
pling of the commerce of England was now 
the object of the cruise. 

After some days out, and the capturing of 
a number of prizes, the Cerf, because of the in- 
subordination of her crew, returned to France ; 
the Alliance, whose captain, Landais, con- 
tinued to give Jones trouble whenever he 
could, parted from the little fleet, and when 
the Firth of Forth was entered the Bon Homme 
Richard was accompanied only by the Venge- 
ance and the Pallas. 


334 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Many prizes were taken and many adven- 
tures were met with. Near Flamborough 
Head one evening the Richard sunk a collier ; 
the Vengeance was near at hand, but the 
Pallas had borne off to the northeast in chase 
of a sloop. A pilot taken from the collier 
gave information regarding a fleet of forty-one 
sail from the Baltic and under convoy of 
two British ships of war. This immediately 
fired the ambition of John Paul Jones ; if he 
could get into the midst of this huge, helpless 
fleet he could, perhaps, cut out a score of 
them. 

Toward daylight next morning he chased 
two ships for several hours ; dawn revealed 
these to be the Alliance and the Pallas. Cap- 
tain Jones at once communicated to their 
commanders the news of the nearness of the 
fleet of merchantmen. 

Ethan Carlyle had borne the news to the 
Alliance, and when the boat was once more 
hoisted into the Bon Homme Richard he said 
to Captain Jones : 

Captain Landais does not seem at all de- 
lighted at the prospect. He seemed to fear that 
some of the vessels might be armed. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 335 

Paul Jones’ eyes flashed scornfully. 

“ He’s of the same kidney as Simpson, then. 
I fancied as much.” 

They were still in the latitude of Flam- 
borough Head, about two leagues off the 
English coast, when the Baltic fleet hove in 
sight. The great mass of merchantmen came 
stretching out from behind the Head, bearing 
northeast from the Richard. 

Lay the ship as close to them as you can, 
Mr. Dale,” directed the commander. 

Dale put a press of sail upon the flag-ship 
and made for the convoy as the Richard 
passed the Alliance and Pallas, which hung 
close together. Paul Jones heard Landais 
call to the commander of the other vessel, 

If they have above fifty guns there will 
be nothing left to do but run for it ! ” 

This was said, of course, in the presence of 
the crews of both ships, and had a most de- 
moralizing effect upon them. In a very little 
while both vessels began beating to and fro in 
a hesitating, alarmed way, showing no dispo- 
sition to advance. 

We’ll have to attack alone, I think,” 
said Ethan to the commander. 


336 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

“It looks very much like it/’ replied Jones, 
bitterly. “ But we will do it, for there is no 
halting or turning back now.” 

And so the Bon Homme Richard bore down 
upon the fleet alone. 

As the pilot of the collier had said, the Bal- 
tic merchantmen were convoyed by two ves- 
sels of war. One of these was the Serapis, a 
new and splendid ship, mounting forty-four 
guns on two decks and carrying a crew of 
three hundred and twenty men. The other 
was the Countess of Scarborough, armed with 
twenty-four guns on her main deck and with 
a ship’s company of one hundred and fifty 
men. 

As the Richard came down upon them 
some of the frightened merchantmen began 
firing with their light guns. An alarm spread 
through the fleet at the sound of the guns ; 
the two men-of-war were astern of them all, 
keeping them in place ; but now at the signals 
of danger they both came to the front with 
great promptness, while the convoy scurried 
toward the shore once more. Captain Pearson 
of the Serapis knew with whom he had to 
deal ; a little time before the bailiff of Scar- 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 337 

borough Castle had put off in a boat and in- 
formed him that John Paul Jones was oper- 
ating on the coast. 

The Englishman trusted to the guns of 
Scarborough Castle to protect the merchant- 
men while they stood out to sea and prepared 
for action. 

It was night before the Richard came up 
with them, as the breeze was very light ; 
about eight bells both British ships tacked and 
stood in for shore ; Jones at once altered his 
course with a view of cutting them off. At 
sight of this manoeuvre the skipper of the 
Pallas thought the crew of the Richard had 
mutinied in the face of the foe ; so he hauled 
his wind quickly and stood out. Landais 
brought the Alliance to a long distance to 
windward, and most coolly awaited develop- 
ments, never seeming to trouble himself a 
moment over the fact that his duty called him 
to render the Richard all the aid in his power. 

As the ship of John Paul Jones drew near, 
a deep voice from the quarter-deck of the 
Serapis hailed her. 

** Ahoy ! What ship is that ? 

It was then a quarter past eight ; the moon 


338 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

swung like a great disc of silver in the 
heavens ; the sea was scarcely ruffled, so still 
was the air. It was Richard Dale who an- 
swered the hail. 

Come a little nearer,” he shouted, “ and 
we’ll tell you I ” 

The tall poop and forecastle of the Richard 
seemed to excite derision upon the British 
ship ; she stood hugely out of the water with 
an ark-like loom ; and she had a dull, slow- 
moving air, vastly different from the smart 
and powerful Serapis. 

“ What are you laden with, old Noah’s 
ark ? ” called the voice from the Englishman, 
and the question was accompanied by con- 
temptuous laughter. 

“ We carry round, grape and double-headed 
shot,” answered Richard Dale. 

And no sooner had he uttered the words 
than a sheet of red flame burst from the side 
of the Serapis and she poured her range of 
upper and quarter-deck guns into the high 
hull of the Richard. 


CHAPTER XXIV 


HOW THE SERAPIS STRUCK HER FLAG 

John Paul Jones, a dark, slender figure, 
paced calmly to and fro upon his quarter- 
deck. 

‘‘You may fire, Mr. Dale,” he said com- 
posedly. 

Dale passed the word ; the gunners applied 
their matches and the whole broadside of the 
Richard hurled destruction at the grim Eng- 
lishman. From that moment the night was 
ablaze ; broadside answered broadside with 
echoing fury ; the men at the guns, stripped 
to the waist, with hard set mouths and scowl- 
ing brows, charged, rammed and fired like 
clockwork. Men standing behind screens, 
drenched with water, handed out charges of 
powder to boys who darted up and down the 
ladders like monkeys, passing the explosive 
to the guns. 

Every man was belted with cutlass and 
pistol ; stands of grape and round shot, and 
339 


340 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

boarding pikes stood about. Grappling irons 
and boarding nettings were ready for instant 
use in case the ships should touch. Aloft the 
yards of the Richard swarmed with marines, 
muskets in hand ; another large body of the 
sea-soldiery were also upon the poop and fore- 
castle. These were Frenchmen ; they were 
under the command of a colonel and, for the 
most part, were good marksmen. 

The rending thunder of the cannonade 
never halted for a moment. Ethan Carlyle 
and Longsword worked an after gun like 
furies ; their bare bodies, in the light of the 
battle lanterns, were black with the grime of 
the guns ; from beneath their sweat-matted 
shocks of hair their eyes glowed like coals. 

The Countess of Scarborough at the begin- 
ning of the fight had not dared to fire into 
the Richard for fear of injuring the Serapis ; 
but as the battle grew older she began to seek 
a position from which she might venture to 
take part. 

Ethan noted this, for the moonlight showed 
them the ship^s actions ; he said to Longsword, 

“ There goes the other one ; hot work, 
Shamus.” 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 341 

The Pallas is going to meet her, faith,” 
cried the dragoon as that vessel suddenly 
darted into the blaze of the guns and made 
for the second Englishman. 

“ No fear of the Alliance doing anything of 
the kind,” said Ethan, darting a fierce glance 
toward that splendid but silent frigate as she 
rose and fell to the seas, off in the moonlight. 

If I were the commander of this squadron 
I’d hang that fellow Landais from his own 
yard arm as soon as this action was over ! ” 

The main deck batteries were working fa- 
mously but soon Dale rushed up from below 
with news of disaster. 

‘‘ Three of the long eighteens on the star- 
board side have exploded, sir,” he reported to 
Captain Jones. Most of their crews have 
been killed or injured.” 

The firm mouth of the chief tightened ; 
then he replied : 

“ Abandon those other eighteens upon the 
port side. I have always suspected the 
quality of those pieces, and feared that some- 
thing like this might happen.” 

This order was carried out. From that 
time on all the heavy guns of the Richard 


342 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

were out of action ; to win she must depend 
upon her lighter ones alone. 

For some time Pearson had been trying to 
get his vessel under the stern of the American 
ship ; Jones prevented this by masterly sea- 
manship. But the Richard answered her 
helm slowly, while the swift Serapis moved 
like a hawk. At length the Englishman 
secured the coveted position and the Ameri- 
can’s deck was raked murderously by whole 
broadsides and showers of musketry. Some 
of the heavy shot went through and through 
the Richard’s rotten timbers ; great holes were 
blown in her that gaped like windows. 

The marines fore and aft were killed in 
crowds ; and at length the French colonel in 
charge of them withdrew what few remained 
to safer positions. In spite of the sand which 
had been thrown about, the decks of the con- 
verted Indiaman were slippery with blood ; 
the killed lay upon every side, and the horrid, 
hopeless cries of the wounded were dreadful to 
hear. The guns of the Richard were useless 
while the Serapis held her present position ; 
the only damage that the Americans were 
doing was by the small arms’ fire from the top. 




WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 343 

With his deck reeling beneath him, and the 
very frame of his crazy old ship almost rent 
asunder by the shocks of her own guns, the 
dauntless commander of the Bon Homme 
Richard sprang along his shot swept rail into 
that sleet of death. He had seen the des- 
perate efforts of Ethan Carlyle and Long- 
sword to drag a gun to a position from which 
it could be brought to bear upon the enemy, 
and now lent his aid in placing it. 

“ Warm work, sir ! panted the Irish 
dragoon. 

Ay,” answered the commander grimly, as 
he sighted the gun, and ’twill be hotter still 
before we are done.” 

** They don’t seem to be hulling us with 
their lower battery as they did some time 
ago,” said Ethan, who had noted this remark- 
able fact. Although the ships were within 
pistol shot of one another and the big guns of 
the Serapis roared incessantly they seemed to 
be doing no damage. 

The reason is simple enough,” said the 
captain coolly, as he took the blazing match 
from Longsword’s hand. “ Dale reports that 
they have shot six port holes into one on both 


344 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

sides and their balls are passing clear through 
us without striking/’ 

As he fired the gun a man sprang upon 
deck and saluted. It was Richard Dale. 

“We are leaking badly, sir,” he said. 
“ They have struck us repeatedly below the 
water line, and the surgeon has been forced to 
clear the cock-pit of all the wounded.” 

“ Have you manned the pumps ? ” 

“ Yes, sir.” 

Paul Jones gave a quick command. A 
number of guns were dragged to positions 
from which they could play upon the British 
ship. Their roar was growing in volume and 
steadiness, when suddenly the supply of pow- 
der ceased to be handed through the hatches. 

Richard Dale and Ethan Carlyle, at Jones’ 
command, plunged below to learn the cause 
of this. 

“ Ammunition for the main deck,” roared 
Dale in a voice to be heard above the English- 
man’s guns. 

The warrant officer in charge of the maga- 
zine stood at its locked door, a pistol in his 
hand, and when Dale and Ethan seized him 
roughly he said : 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 345 

There was nothing else to do but lock the 
door, sir. The news came that the ship was 
sinking and the quartermaster released all the 
prisoners so that they might have a chance for 
their lives. See, the deck below here is 
crowded with them.” 

As Dale and Ethan looked they saw the 
truth of this; the gun deck was thronged 
with desperate looking men who greatly out- 
numbered the Richard's crew, and they were 
huddling together, apparently for a rush to 
the main deck for an attempt to take the ship. 
The quick wit of Dale was equal to this new 
and novel danger. He leaped toward them 
and shouted in a voice that all could hear : 

• Men, the ship is sinking ! ” 

The faces of the great throng of released 
prisoners blanched ; then Dale continued : 

“ You have one chance for your lives ; to 
the pumps, or you are all dead men ! ” 

With eager haste the British seamen sprang 
to obey; if they had known it, they could 
now have crawled through the ports of the 
Richard into the Serapis, for Captain Jones, 
by a masterly stroke of seamanship, had at 
length placed his vessel alongside the English- 


346 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

man, and locked their yards together. But 
fate would have it that British brawn should 
keep the Richard afloat while her crew strove 
against their countrymen. As Ethan and 
Dale regained the main deck, the ammunition 
once more began to come through the hatches ; 
but the guns were still silent. 

All this time the Serapis had been pouring 
death into the huge, helpless hulk of the 
American. The Richard was a wreck — shat- 
tered, reeling and all but sinking. Her crew 
had deserted her main deck, her dead lay 
about in heaps. The moonlight, streaming 
down upon the scene showed the slight figure 
of John Paul Jones as he worked desperately 
at a dismounted gun, almost alone, but with a 
determination to win that only death could 
destroy. Captain Pearson, of the Serapis, as- 
tonished at the Richard’s silence, now shouted : 

Have you struck ? ” 

Jones lifted his head and his answer rang 
proudly above the din of the battle. 

“ I have not yet begun to fight ! ” 

There was something in this answer that 
gave renewed courage to the American sea- 
men ; they manned their pieces once more ; a 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 347 

steady five from the tops slackened the gun- 
nery of the Serapis, perceptibly ; then a 
sudden flare showed the latter to be on Are, 
and her gun crews rushed to extinguish the 
blaze. 

In the meantime the Pallas had engaged 
the Countess of Scarborough, and after a brisk 
action had forced her to strike. The Alliance 
now advanced, and to the astonishment of all 
she poured a broadside into the Richard. 

She’s been taken by the British I ” gasped 
Longsword. 

It’s that mad Frenchman, Landais,” cried 
Richard Dale, in a fury. See, the signal is 
set,” pointing to the lights on the Richard’s 
side. He cannot have mistaken us for the 
enemy.” 

The Alliance managed to dismount some 
guns and do the Richard considerable other 
damage before she silenced her fire, and hauled 
off once more. 

The fire from the Richard’s top had suc- 
ceeded in clearing the Serapis above board ; 
but her heavy guns on the lower deck were 
still pounding away in a most murderous 
fashion. The heavy lashings that Captain 


348 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Jones had brought into use when the Richard’s 
bow touched the Serapis some time before 
were all that saved the former ; had the Eng- 
lishman managed to get free and been able to 
haul away, she could have sunk the American 
at her leisure. 

Under these conditions the battle continued 
to rage ; hour after hour passed and still the 
bulldog Briton and the dauntless Yankee 
grappled in their death struggle, the red flare 
of the guns blazing paths of fire along the 
still waters of the sea. The pumps were still 
at work and the prisoners labored in relays ; 
but the Richard sank lower and still lower in 
the water. Captain Jones was pounding away 
with two guns at the masts of the Serapis 
thinking to cripple her in this way and then 
secure a position in which he could rake her 
with his main deck battery. As this was 
proceeding Longsword plucked Dale by the 
sleeve. 

Look there, on the main top.” 

Dale glanced upward, and saw Ethan Car- 
lyle crawling out upon the yard. He had a 
ship’s bucket filled to the top with hand gre- 
nades ; from the spar of the Richard he crept 




BEGAN TO THROW THE GRENADES 





WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 349 

to that of the Serapis ; when he reached a po- 
sition directly over the deck of the British 
ship he paused and slung his bucket to the 
spar by a hook. 

Then he began to throw the grenades. 
There were but few men upon the deck of 
the Englishman, as has been said before, the 
musketry fire having driven most of them 
below ; the grenades cleared these few away 
like magic ; and then Ethan began to throw 
his explosives into the hatches. As fate 
would have it some loose powder upon the 
lower gun deck of the Serapis caught, and an 
instant later a sheet of flame went up, fol- 
lowed by the roar of a terrific explosion. A 
panic seized the crew of the Englishman ; 
they rushed upon the deck throwing down 
their arms and crying for quarter. 

Ethan came down the ratlines of the Serapis 
like a flash, just as Richard Dale swung him- 
self from a broken brace upon the quarter- 
deck, and the English captain with his own 
hands hauled down his flag. 

“ Have you struck ? ” asked the gallant first 
officer of the Richard. 

I have,’' answered Captain Pearson. 


350 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

No sooner had the words been spoken than 
a man with a blood-stained bandage swathed 
about his head sprang upon deck ; he had a 
sword in his hand and his fierce face was 
black with powder smoke and smeared with 
blood. 

“ The officer below inquires if the enemy 
has surrendered/’ he said to Captain Pearson. 

“ Report to him that it is I who have sur- 
rendered/’ returned Pearson, bitterly. 

“ You ! ” exclaimed the man. Why, in 
a few more broadsides they are ours. A 
prisoner just crawled through a port and says 
that they are sinking.” 

Captain Pearson cast a swift glance at the 
seamen of the Richard, who were now leaping 
upon his deck ; but he drooped his head with 
a groan when he saw that he was powerless. 

‘‘ The Serapis has struck,” said Dale to the 
man with the bandaged head. Pass the 
word below.” 

“ Very well, sir,” said the man. 

Ethan was watching this man curiously, 
and when he turned to spring below he found 
the young American confronting him with 
ready cutlass. 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 351 

Mr. Dale said pass the word,” said Ethan, 
sternly. “You need not bother about going 
below in person.” 

That it had been the man’s intention to tell 
his officer to continue the fight was clear from 
the baffled look which he gave Ethan. The 
latter then stepped close to him and continued 
in a low voice, 

“ And another thing — I would very much 
like to have the paper which you took that 
night upon the by-road to London, Master 
Dirk Hatfield.” 

At the sound of his name, the highwayman 
made a sudden forward leap and cut desper- 
ately at Ethan ; but the young American’s 
guard was up and he caught the descending 
blade upon his own ; then with a twist of the 
wrist he disarmed his opponent and held his 
point at his throat. 

By this time the decks of the Serapis 
swarmed with American seamen. Longsword 
pinned the highwayman’s arms at his sides, 
while Ethan’s eager hands sought out the 
much desired dispatch. At length he drew 
it from an inner pocket and held it up with 
a cry of triumph. 


352 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

John Paul Jones, who stood near, turned 
upon the boy as he heard the cry. 

“ What have you there? ” he asked. 

“ The dispatch,” exclaimed Ethan joyfully. 
“ Here is the highwayman of whom I spoke 
to you,” pointing to Hatfield, “ and he still 
had it in his possession.” 

Fortune still follows you,” cried Jones as 
he took the paper which the lad held out to 
him. 

And misfortune seems to follow me,” 
spoke the knight of the road as they led him 
away among the other prisoners. “ There is 
ten thousand pounds gone to pot.” 

The crew of the Serapis was disarmed and 
imprisoned below. Then, as the shattered 
Richard threatened to sink at any moment, 
the prisoners and wounded were hastily dis- 
tributed between the Pallas and the captured 
Englishman ; the American commander and 
his crew shifting to the latter ship which, 
though badly crippled in the rigging, was 
still seaworthy. 

The Richard’s own crew and some from the 
Pallas strove at the pumps to keep out the 
inrushing water from the doomed vessel ; but 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 353 

their efforts were of no avail, and on the 
morning of the twenty-fifth their officers 
called them away. 

As the last man was going over the side into 
Lieutenant Daleys boat, Ethan Carlyle swarmed 
up the damaged shrouds of the American ship. 

‘‘ Come back,” shouted Dale. “ She is go- 
ing down.” 

But the boy continued upward till he 
reached the main top ; then he drew from be- 
neath his arm a flag, and with a few rapid 
blows nailed it to the mast. He had descended 
and clambered into the boat, which pulled 
rapidly away, before the Richard gave her last 
heavy shuddering lurch ; then, with her battle 
flag streaming above her, she dipped grandly 
and sank slowly beneath the waves. 


CHAPTER XXV 


HOME AND LIBERTY 

The American squadron and its prizes put 
into the Texal ; Landais was at once removed 
from his command and sent home to France. 
In a short time Paul Jones, with Ethan and 
Longsword, sailed in the Alliance for that 
country also, the commander having shifted 
his crew and officers into that vessel. 

The delight of Dr. Franklin at receiving 
the long lost dispatch was very great ; and 
he thanked the three over and over again. 
The day following their arrival at Paris, he 
took Ethan aside. 

“ There are many important things which I 
desire to say to Congress,’^ said the philosopher, 
and I want a trusty messenger to carry my 
report. Will you go ? ” 

For some time Ethan had felt a longing for 
home and friends ; and now that the paper 
was recovered he had nothing further to keep 
him in France. So he answered eagerly : 

‘‘ I will.’’ 


354 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 355 

“ Very well,” said Dr. Franklin in a pleased 
tone. A French cruiser sails for Baltimore 
within a week.” 

If your report is ready I will cross in her,” 
said Ethan, promptly. 

The minister’s dispatches were ready next 
day, and Ethan bid good-bye to Captain Jones 
and Richard Dale. 

** We stay to fight the English,” said the 
former, as he clasped the lad’s hand, “ and 
you will return to fight them, I know.” 

They are striking good blows at home,” 
said Dale, and we upon this side must look 
to ourselves or we’ll be left far behind.” 

The last that Ethan saw of this gallant pair 
they were standing upon the fiags of a Paris 
street waving their hats in farewell as he and 
Longsword once more took the road for Brest. 

The young American and Irish dragoon 
arrived in good time at that seaport and 
boarded the cruiser the day before she sailed. 
After a voyage of six weeks against contrary 
winds they were landed at Baltimore, and at 
once set out for Philadelphia. 

Since they had set foot in that city it had 
been in the hands of the British, and Sir 


356 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

Henry Clinton had only evacuated it a short 
time before. 

Dr. Franklin^s dispatches were delivered to 
Mr. Hancock, and were eagerly received and 
laid before Congress. 

I hope, sir,'’ said Ethan to Mr. Jefferson 
when he presented himself to the great Vir- 
ginian, that you did not object to my sailing 
with Captain Jones and so delaying my re- 
turn." 

“ Not in the least," said Mr. Jefferson. “ Dr. 
Franklin wrote me the reason for it ; you did 
what I would have expected you to do — and 
you did it well." 

“ Things are going badly for the cause, sir, 
I hear." 

“ You arrive home at the country's most 
gloomy period," said Jefferson, gravely. “ Dark 
shadows seem to overhang us, and the British 
press upon us from every side ; the want of 
money makes Congress all but helpless ; our 
armies are lately scattered in the south, and in 
the north Washington can do little more than 
fly before the battalions of Clinton." 

There was a silence between them for some 
time ; then Ethan said quietly : 


WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 357 

In that case, sir, it seems to me that the 
nation wants a soldier much more than you 
want a secretary.’^ 

Jefferson took his meaning instantly, and 
wrung his hand. 

You are right, said he heartily. But 
why not the navy ? You are a born sailor.” 

I have witnessed too much of the delays 
of that branch of the service,” said Ethan. 

Constant waiting ashore for a ship while 
my country needed my strength would be 
more than I could stand.” 

Then the army it shall be,” cried Mr. Jef- 
ferson. “ You shall have a commission within 
the week.” 

The Virginian was as good as his word. 
The commission was in Ethan’s hands in a 
week’s time ; and in a fortnight he was serving 
as a lieutenant in a regiment of horse in the 
army under Washington. 

As the years of the conflict unrolled he rose 
in rank and in the esteem of his commanders. 
Was there a hard-fought field, where only des- 
perate courage and shrewd blows carried the 
patriots to victory ? Then there you would 
be sure to find Ethan Carlyle, in the press of 


358 WITH JOHN PAUL JONES 

it, and at his side the grim old war dog, Long- 
sword. 

And when peace spread her glittering wings 
above a new-born nation, the gallant boy, now 
grown a young man, and with the epaulets of a 
major upon his broad shoulders, laid down his 
bright sword with a sigh of mingled regret 
and satisfaction. 

“ The war is done,” said Longsword. 

Yes,” replied Ethan, soberly. The war 
is done ; and now comes the longer struggle to 
give the nation permanent life.” 


THE END 


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